One of the unexpected gifts of our daughters participating in Of Water and Spirit classes has been the conversations we share along the way.

As we drive to and from Frankston on Sunday mornings, we often find ourselves talking about God, asking big questions, and reflecting on what makes Community of Christ special. We talk about how their dad and I both grew up in the church on different continents, and what being part of a worldwide community of faith has meant in our lives. Along the way, they work through activities in their workbooks, but it is often their questions, observations, and reflections that stay with me long after.

What has surprised me most is that I find myself learning alongside them. Not necessarily learning new information, but being reminded of who we are as a church and the mission we are called to live each day.

At a recent class, the focus was peace, a theme that has been woven throughout the lessons. We talked about Jesus’ words, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you,” and explored the idea that peace is more than simply the absence of conflict; peace is helping things become right, good, safe, and whole.

When the children were asked how we can pursue peace in everyday life, their answers were both simple and profound: kindness, being a friend, hugs, sharing our things, listening, helping others, doing chores, forgiving, and paying attention to what is happening around us. I was especially struck by their understanding that being a peacemaker begins with noticing. It requires us to pay attention to the people and situations around us so that we can recognize opportunities to help, encourage, and bring peace.

In a world that often highlights division and conflict, these conversations give me hope. It has been inspiring to hear our children speak so naturally about compassion, awareness, and care for others. Their words give me hope, not only for the future of the church, but for the ways we are already living Christ's mission today.

Calee Loughran