Preschoolers Pray, Help Raise Funds For Classmate’s Recovery
“And a child shall lead them” - around and around Redeemer Lutheran Church.
About 20 families with children attending preschool at Redeemer are lacing up their shoes this morning, for a series of hour-long walks to raise money for a little 4-year-old boy who just returned home this week after undergoing heart surgery.
The child, whose family wishes to remain anonymous, was born without pulmonary arteries. It was his second operation, and he faces more.
The most recent surgery happened at the UCLA Medical Center. The boy is certainly not anonymous to the parents and children of Redeemer.
“The preschoolers pray for him all the time,” says Lorri Peasley, one of the walk’s organizers. “One of the moms said she’s rather have a group of 4-year-olds pray for her than anyone else. They are so faithful.”
She said although the family has insurance, the cost of transportation and lodging took its toll.
The preschoolers and their families went door-to-door, asking for walk-a-thon pledges. Peasley says she hopes to raise about $2,000. She says the walk will also help those lending the tiny helping hands.
“It’s a real lesson for them in caring and helping others,” Peasley says.
The boy’s mother thinks they’ve learned that lesson. “I really appreciate what they’ve done,” she says.
The walk will happen inside the church’s multi-purpose room starting at noon and will continue until 5 p.m. Weather permitting, it may be moved outside. Anyone wishing to donate can stop by the church, 3606 S. Schafer Road, today during the event.
Youth dance
Spokane Valley United Methodist Church is sponsoring a dance for junior high and high school students tonight.
The event is open to all teens, not just members of the congregation. Admission is $2 per person or $3 per couple. The dance happens from 8 to 11 p.m.
The church is located at 10422 E. Main, behind the International House of Pancakes across from University City Shopping Center.
New pastor
The Rev. Ray Ruef retired last summer after 24 years at Liberty Lake Community Church and five at Deer Park Community Church.
But it turned out to be just a short break.
“I thought I was through,” Ruef says with a laugh. “But I really enjoy my work.”
Ruef, 62, is now the pastor of senior citizens and visitation at Valley Fourth Memorial Church. He will serve the retired population there and will also make visits to area nursing homes.
“I love meeting and dealing with older adults,” Ruef says. “I enjoy challenging them to do more than they think they can.”
, DataTimes