This morning, friends of all ages gathered at the Lived Experiences Community Center for a warm and joy-filled gathering that brought together devotion, creativity, and fellowship. The atmosphere was full of laughter, conversation, and the spirit of unity as children, youth, and adults participated side by side.
Devotional Gathering: Centering Our Hearts
We began with a simple devotional, creating a peaceful space to reflect on spiritual themes of service, togetherness, and the capacity each of us has to contribute to the well-being of our community. The readings helped to ground the morning and set a tone of gratitude and purpose.
As one of the quotes on the wall reminds us,
“We are all leaves of one tree, the blossoms of one garden.”
That spirit was clearly alive today.
Arts & Crafts: Origami with Purpose
After the devotional, everyone shifted into creative mode. Using recycled store ads and colorful papers, participants made origami boats, bowls, and playful shapes. Youth and adults helped one another fold, cut, and shape the pages into something new—turning an ordinary activity into a moment of connection.
The tables were covered with bright papers, scissors, coffee cups, and lots of conversation. The joy of learning together—whether it was a child making their very first paper boat or an adult trying a new fold—brought out smiles all around.
A Community Potluck to Close the Morning
We finished the gathering by sharing food and conversation. Coffee, pastries, and home-prepared dishes filled the tables, and the room felt like a big family kitchen. Children played, some youth practiced simple dance steps, and others continued folding paper creations even after the workshop ended.
These small but meaningful moments—people talking, eating, creating, and learning—reflect the kind of community we are striving to build: welcoming, uplifting, and united across ages and backgrounds.
A Special Thank You
We are grateful to the Lived Experiences Community Center for offering such a loving and supportive space for local families. And thank you to everyone who attended, helped, and contributed time, food, or creativity.
Today was a reminder that when we come together with open hearts, even simple activities can become powerful expressions of unity.