Story hour for everyone

The Rev. John Joseph of the Seventh-day Adventist Church started holding a children's story hour in Yuba City six years ago with his wife, Parveen, to help East Indians settle into the community.

He cried while he prayed for the well-being of children and the community Monday during the Sixth Annual East Indian Children's Story Hour at the Adventist Christian School in Yuba City.

"We are family on this planet," Joseph said.

About 55 children ages 3 to 12 and of different races and ethnicities came to the first night of the event Monday to hear cultural and Bible stories. Some parents watched as their children enjoyed games, crafts and singing along to songs.

The program helps teach the children health principles, morals and how to be good citizens. It is the only East Indian children's program in the community, Joseph said.

"Our idea is to keep children safe — to teach them something — so they don't go into the company of bad people," he said.

About 35 volunteers told stories and led crafts as a few teenagers who were past participants learned how to be team leaders.

Lavena Cater, director of the program, said children look forward to the event every year where they have fun and learn about strong Bible characters like Jesus and David.

"I have seen kids that have been rebellious before — just not in line with society — and they have completely changed in attitude after the program," she said.

Two volunteers pointed out 5-year-old Monica Kumar as an example of a participant who has learned to pay attention and communicate better after four years in the program and attendance at the church.

Monica said she learned songs and that "Jesus sheeps."

The free event, titled "One Perfect Life," runs 6 p.m. to 8:30, Monday through Thursday, this week and next week. Participants can come any night. For more information, call 673-6814 or 673-5007.

Contact Appeal-Democrat reporter Katy Sweeny at 749-4708 or ksweeny@appeal-democrat.com