What happens when you Invest in Lenape Valley Church?

“Safe!” is what a runner hopes to hear from the umpire when he reaches the bag in baseball. “Safe!” is what children call out when they reach home base in the game of Tag. “Safe” is what we all need to feel at the end of a long, hard day out in the world. “Safe space” is what Lenape Valley Church offers to young and old throughout the week.

On Sunday mornings, our children gather from infant through elementary school to explore the promises of God. Music, crafts, games, and Bible stories all prepare young hearts and minds to welcome Jesus into their lives. After worship, our teens gather for Brunch Bunch where the realities of life are explored through a relationship with Jesus. This past Sunday, our teens needed to talk about the car accident that happened on Bristol Rd. after the CB West High School football game. Three teens died in that accident. A fourth teen is still in critical condition. None of our youth know those boys, but the tragedy of that accident left a stark reminder of the consequences of one decision. We listened as our teens struggled, we talked about the challenging gift of free will, and we wondered together- where is God in all this? Then we gathered in a prayer circle to lift up the families of those boys for the healing and hope that only God can bring. Sunday, our youth needed “safe space” to consider together the hard realities of life. As they ate bagels and berries, they found that safe-haven in the basement of our church.

On Monday nights, our Genesis group gathers to consider the truths of the faith. Again “safe space” is essential for our students to be able to challenge and question what they have been taught, allowing them to claim the faith as their own. As they gather in the youth room, the Grandfamilies meet upstairs- grandparents taking on the daunting task of raising their grandchildren. Imagine reaching retirement only to find yourself back in the saddle, parenting children who have seen too much of the brokenness of this world. As the grandparents talk, the grandchildren play with children who understand. Those families need “safe space” in the midst of chaos.

Throughout the week, our halls are filled with the sounds of little ones from our community who come for preschool education. Many of the children are on scholarship, so that no child is left behind. Our neighbors’ children play, sing and learn daily in our “safe space.” When the rain falls, the children play in Fellowship Hall. When the storms of life hit, Lenape Valley responds with grace. And when their families struggle to put food on the table, your generosity through the Deacon’s Fund offers them a lifeline.

Lest we think only children and teens need a “safe space”, even those of us who are young-at-heart need the refuge that a good church home can offer. Worship that refreshes the soul. Coffee hour that strengthens the family bond. Bible study that deepens the faith. A kind word. A welcoming smile. A quiet prayer. A reminder of God’s love. You help create “safe space” every time you invest in the ministry of Lenape Valley. Imagine how much our neighbors need the gift we enjoy every week!

In 2026, may we be a City on a Hill, that offers “safe space” to more children-of-all-ages in our community! On Sunday, November 23rd you will have the opportunity to invest in the mission and ministry of Lenape Valley Church for 2026. Share in the opportunity of a lifetime- help create “safe space”!

With you in the mission,
Anita

PS… Mark your calendar for a Town Hall Meeting after worship on Sunday, November 16th to hear more about the Strategic Plan that God has formed through the voice of our faith community. Come… learn… share your ideas… ask your questions… find your part in God’s plan for Lenape Valley Church.