Church Family Moment for Sunday, March 8, 2026

By Director of Spiritual Formation Rebecca Guzman

1. Read Aloud Story Connection: Listen to If You Want to See a Whale by Julie Fogliano. In this story, a little boy wants to see a whale. But to see something so big and beautiful, he must learn to be patient, to stop chasing distractions, and to be still. Krista Lovell reminds us that Elijah, full of fire and zeal, once found himself alone and discouraged. God was not in the dramatic wind, earthquake, or fire—but in “a sound of sheer silence.” The Psalmist echoes this invitation: “Be still and know that I am God.” When did the boy finally see the whale? When he got still and waited. What a beautiful lesson for all of us. Be still and know.
2. Game: “Stay Cool”: Invite everyone to sit in a circle. The goal is simple: stay as still and quiet as possible. Players may blink but may not hide their faces. The leader gently watches and calls out anyone who moves or makes a sound. The last person remaining still and quiet wins. Play 3–5 short rounds. Afterward, notice together: Was it easy or hard to be still? (Source)
3. Craft: Calm Heart Breath: You will need 2 pipe cleaners, 3–7 beads. Twist the two pipe cleaners together and bend them in half. Slide 3–7 beads onto the pipe cleaners. Shape the ends into a heart and secure them by twisting the ends together (adults may need to help). To use: As you breathe in, move one bead slowly along one side of the heart. As you breathe out, move a bead along the other side. Let the movement help your body grow quiet and still. (Source, Instructional Video)
4. Wonder Questions
   1. Name a time when you got distracted from something you were doing or looking for. What was your distraction? How did you regain your focus?
   2. What keeps you busy most of the time?
   3. How do you make time for stillness in your life?
   4. When have you experienced quiet that helped you notice something important?