I wonder what a “gentle September” could like in our churches? Can church be a place where we give permission to rest, slow down, and take good care of ourselves?
For so many of us, September is a season of transition – especially surrounding “Back to School”. At the start, this may feel exciting! Joyful! High energy! High expectations! Big change! Is it any surprise that after that surge of energy and adrenaline, people need to rest? Kids need to sleep. Teenagers need to collapse onto the couch. Parents need a moment. Maybe you do, too? While you might celebrate high attendance on a big Rally Sunday or kick off event, the very next week, attendance might dip, drop, even crash. That’s because families might need permission to dip, drop, even crash…
As we move later into September, here are some *gentle* reminders and invitations – for the families at your church and for yourself:
You made it… great job! Thank you for coming to church this morning! After a full week of school – especially the second or third week of school - don’t be surprised when kids (and teenagers, and parents) are exhausted. Their bodies might actually need to sleep in on Sunday morning. Have grace-filled expectations and grace-filled invitations. Consider hosting a pajama day – come as you are! – or breakfast buffet. Is there anything you can do to make your event easier on families, especially in September?
Confirmation will start later this month – or even next month! Consider starting your fall programming a few weeks after school starts. I know that can be hard – because after an event like Rally Sunday, or Blessing of the Backpacks – the momentum can be huge! A few years ago, our church tried hosting “back to back” special events – come both Sundays for something extra fun! That second week: almost no one came. It was too much! Pay attention to the energy and rhythms this year, and make notes and plan accordingly for next year. Consider adding in a “mentor training” or “Sunday School teacher appreciation” at the start of the school year – giving families permission to take a break and catch their breath, as needed.
Create a space where all feelings are welcome. Some kids will really struggle these first few weeks of school. Unfortunately, some kids might genuinely dislike their teacher. Some kids will mourn being in a class without their friends. And for some kids, back to school means back to bullies. Refrain from overly positive generalizations – especially those with an implied “correct” answer. For example: “Don’t you love being back at school?! Are you having a great year so far?! Isn’t it so great to be back?!” because for many kids, the honest answer is “no…” Instead, try a thumbs up/thumbs down check in. Show me – honestly - how are you doing this week? Thumbs up means best week ever! Thumbs down means worst week ever… or maybe you are somewhere in between? This can be good for kids, teenagers – even adults! Consider starting worship – or a children’s sermon – or a Sunday School class – this way. Find a way to honor all responses.
You also have space to take a deep breath… Go for a morning walk before the temperatures drop. Reach out to a friend, just to check in. Slow down and drink your favorite warm beverages – whether that’s a pumpkin spice latte, chai tea, or hot chocolate. What do you need to create your own gentle September? How might we all benefit from leading from that gentle place?