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--New for Preschool children: Beginning this quarter, My Bible Storybook has a lively new design. Take special note of the added features, including more interactive pages and "home connection" notes for parents. Be sure teachers are aware that these books are designed to be sent home with children at the end of the quarter, so families may reread the Bible stories together.
--New for Primary children: Good News Reader has 16 added pages, with more space for stories and activities.
--Got questions? Ask Anna! Watch for the new feature "Ask Anna," coming soon to www.gatherround.org. You'll be able to ask questions about Gather 'Round and check out all the great answers to questions from other teachers.
--Also new on the Gather 'Round website: Revised, updated, and easier-to-use features. Look for new images, downloadable updated curriculum information, and more teaching helps.
--Really Simple Syndication (RSS) is on the horizon, which will allow you to download information to your computer or mobile device gaining access to the latest Gather 'Round information available.
--Be sure to purchase a Talkabout for each family in your congregation. This fall, families will have fun matching the symbol on the cube to the symbol in the Talkabout booklet. They'll discover answers to Bible trivia questions, act out stories, draw, share ideas, and pray together. Ask your pastor to help introduce the Talkabout in worship, and encourage families to use it at home. Find an image at www.gatherround.org/thetalkabout.html.
--Recommend Connect, the Gather 'Round Bible study guide for parents, caregivers, and other adults, to adult groups. It's perfect for Sunday school, small groups, or individuals. Find a sample session at www.gatherround.org/freesamplesessions.html. Give a copy of Connect and the Talkabout to visitors and newcomers, to help them become familiar with your Christian education program.
--Tell us what you think! The Gather 'Round project team needs your feedback as we shape future quarters of curriculum. Find an evaluation form at the back of each teacher's guide, and online at www.gatherround.org/evaluationform.html. Forward this link to teachers in your congregation, and remind them to turn in evaluations for the summer quarter if they have not yet done so.
--Browse through the Gather 'Round Handbook for a complete overview of the Gather 'Round curriculum, as well as articles and tips about many aspects of Christian education. The Handbook is recommended for all church leaders, Christian educators, and pastors. Find a table of contents for the Handbook at www.gatherround.org/handbook.html.
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Gather ’Round is a Bible-based curriculum nurturing children, youth, and adults in becoming followers of Jesus as people who know and love God, interpret God’s word, belong to God’s gathered community, and share God’s good news. It is a joint project of Brethren Press (Church of the Brethren) and Mennonite Publishing Network (Mennonite Church USA and Mennonite Church Canada).
