Leader’s Little Flour Bakers are learning how to share

By Joan Janzen

The parish at Little Flower Catholic Church in Leader has been incorporating a variety of activities during the children’s weekly Catechism lessons as they prepare for their First Holy Communion. Children aged 5–13 get together once a week for their lessons, but once a month they participate in fun activities.

Little Flour Bakers were baking a batch of cookies in the church’s kitchen as part of their Catechism lessons. SUBMITTED

The “Little Flour Bakers” began when one of the parents wanted to bake with the children. Beth Heatcoat includes a faith-based recipe for the children to make and also sends home a copy of the recipe. During their most recent bout in the kitchen, a group of 23 kids whipped up dozens of ginger snaps.

The lesson of the day incorporated the ingredients used in the recipe. Molasses represented ‘love,’ thick, dark and rich. Ginger illustrated ‘hope,’ with a warm little kick that wakes us up and helps us see God at work even when things feel difficult. Cinnamon represented ‘peace,’ cozy and comforting. And cloves were like ‘joy,’ with their bright, bold smell reminding the children of the good news of Jesus’ birth.

“In one hour there were cookies on the table and most of the clean-up was done,” coordinator Jen Dietrich explained. “We have also made cinnamon buns, cookies, muffins, brownies and apple crisp.”

The best part for the kids is that they get to sample their baking when they’re done, but their yummy creations are also given to people who will be alone at Christmas.

“We wouldn’t be able to do this without the help of our parishioners’ gifts, talents and parents’ support,” Jen added.

During their monthly get-together, the youngsters also practice singing as the “Children of Light” choir as they prepare for the Sandhills Music Festival, led by Karri Wagman.

Art became the focus during a get-together when Haeyoung Song helped the kids make a stained-glass picture to decorate their church for Christmas.

Meanwhile, Connie Sitter, Dale McIlmoyl, Taylor Taillon, Marcia Huber, Jen Dietrich and Father Prince Sarpong work together to prepare the weekly Catechism classes. The Little Flower parish continues to invest their time, resources and love in their children, helping them have fun while learning how to live and give to others.