April 13, 1994. That was the first time I was invited to be the speaker at the West Sayville Chrisian School Chapel Service. I have always logged everything in a notebook of what I do and where I speak since I began pastoring so I never repeat myself or a message topic or character. It is so hard to believe I have been going there for almost 30 years. I remember it like it was yesterday. I was asked to share about "Being the light of the world" so I brought in various lights such as candles, a contractor light and a flashlight. I also used "flash paper." Flash paper is a magic trick. You light it with a lighter, throw it up in the air and it disappears.
The chapel service at West Sayville Christian School met in a church that is next door to the school. When I first started speaking at their chapel services, the student body was very big. The church was always crowded. Through the years, it seemed to decrease little by little. The school had classes for kids in pre-school up to grade 8. The cost of sending your child to private school went sky high each year so the total number of students dropped each year I went to speak It always saddened me to see that because I love the fact that not only are kids getting a great education, but they are also learning about the bible and how to live the Christian life!
Through the years I got to work with some amazing Principals including Mrs. Rose, Mr. Marino, Mrs. Golden and Mrs. Warren. There was one Principal who was there briefly, but I forgot his name. These principals always encouraged me and were all so happy I was able to share and welcomed me with open arms. I think they loved Grandpa Lou as much as the kids did. I always told them if they were ever in a bind and needed a speaker, just give me a call! There was a brief period after I left SGT that I did not share at the school. I sent them a letter telling them I was still living on Long Island and I would love to come and share at any time. The principal at the time thought I moved! What's funny is that since that letter I wrote, the school invites me twice a year to come!
The one thing I always love to do is try out new ideas and new characters with this student body. If I get positive feedback from them, I know it worked! Going up in front of a large group of kids always is a great barometer to discover what works and what doesn't work in children's ministry. I have tried out my change bags (a magic trick), C.L.I.N.T. the robot, Dennis Ball, Rocky, Chester the Nervous Chicken, Chad, Drew Sketchley and Red Heartly. After doing these magic tricks and ventriloquist figures, it always gave me the opportunity to see what I need to 'fine tune" and improve on and what worked and did not work. You always know when kids are listening and "getting it."
So, I want to conclude by saying "Thank You" to West Sayville Christian School! I spoke there yesterday and enjoyed every second of it. When the kids walk into chapel they always yell "It's the Puppet Man!!" That always warms my heart. The kids were very attentive, and I knew they were hearing the message. I spoke on "The Sword of the Spirit: The Word of God" as they are learning all about The Armor of God. I pray this school does well and continues to grow and more students will join this amazing school.
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