Who in the World . . . Quien en el Mundo . . .

Imagine the Future Now
The combined wisdom of students of Pilgrim Lutheran School in Chicago, well-known illustrator Elyse J. Kennard and ELCA staff, come together in a delightful new activity book for children grades 3-6.

With both Spanish and English prompts, the 24-page book draws children into deep thought and sharing about their present and future ministries as God’s people. The activity book takes seriously the idea that children are already in ministry, even as they look forward to adulthood.

The book is filled with delightful illustrations and a variety of visual teases that ask for children’s own work - words and drawings - to complete ideas such as:
● Future careers
● The ministry of friendship
● Unique gifts from God
● Gratitude for family members
● Children’s place in the world

An assortment of helps for parents and teachers completes this unique resource that can help children assess and celebrate their unique ministries in God’s world.

Who in the world would write or draw in this book?
Children in grades 3 through 6, and their friends, parents and teachers.

Who in the world would think about using this book?

• Parents who want to talk with their children about the present and future assets they and their children possess, gifts with which to do God’s work in the world.
• Adults who hope children will consider how their present lives prepare them for adult vocations that will also serve God’s will.
• Children who want to imagine how their lives mean something in the greater scheme of things.
• Congregational leaders who see in their children a great and lasting hope.

Where in the world could this book go?
Into backpacks for family trips. On the day camp bus. On top of tables in waiting rooms at offices where children wait for doctors, dentists, counselors, or principals. Inside lunch pails. In pew racks. In Sunday School or vacation Bible school activity centers. In special mailings to children on the occasion of their first communion. In handouts to parents in a parenting class. In children’s homes. At dinner tables. In a special letter from a favorite grandparent. In a Christian day school’s free or devotional times.

How in the world could you talk about this book?
Ask children which page interests them most and why. Tell groups of children to share their ideas about a page. Invent stories based on the completed drawings or writings. Look at bulletin boards of completed pages and talk together about what you see. Before bedtime prayers, talk with children about "doing God’s will every day of your life, in every way." Start family conversations after supper. Start talking about parents’ view of the worth of their own lives in fulfilling God’s purposes.

What in the world could you do with completed pages?
Photocopy or scan pages for including in your school’s or congregation’s newsletter. Make a scrapbook for a time capsule. Surprise a grandparent with the gift of their grandchild’s insights. Start a "talking about the world today" time in each Sunday School class. Give them to your pastor for sermon ideas. Mail them to a legislator or civic leader, with comments.

What in the world could this book do for children?
Help them see their capabilities to be doing God’s work right now as well as in the future. Affirm children’s worth. Help them begin to play with possible vocational choices. Honor children’s hopes about the world they live in. Give them a reason to talk with adults whom they love. Help them connect their faith with daily life. Bond them together with groups of children who share similar hopes. Develop their small muscle skills and creativity. Invite them to have fun with another language.

Ordering information
Who in the World . . Quien en el mundo. . is available from the ELCA Vocation and Education unit, 8765 W. Higgins Road, Chicago, IL 6063l. Pre-paid orders only, please. Make your check payable to SPLASH! and indicate the number of copies you want.

Prices: $4.00 per copy (1-5copies)
$3.50 per copy (6-19 copies)
$3.00 per copy (20 or more copies)
Shipping and handling are included in the price.