Petition to Prayerfully Reconsider the Closure of Catalyst Child Care

To Catalyst Church Leadership,

We, the undersigned families of Catalyst Child Care, write with heavy hearts and deep respect for the church we love and call home. We come not in anger, but in faith, prayer, and hope.

Scripture reminds us of the sacred responsibility we share in raising children in faith. "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it" (Proverbs 22:6). For decades, Catalyst Child Care has lived out this calling by nurturing children not only academically and developmentally, but spiritually.

Catalyst Child Care has never been simply a program housed within the church. It has been a ministry. A place where children are prayed over, families are supported, and faith is woven into everyday moments.

For many of us, it has been a source of stability during seasons of grief, uncertainty, and transition, and a living example of Christ-centered care.

Parents did not simply drop off their children and leave. We built relationships with one another. We shared life. We celebrated birthdays, picnics, Christmas programs, graduations, and milestones that marked both our children’s growth and our walk with God. This center created community rooted in faith and belonging.

We understand that leadership decisions are complex and require discernment, stewardship, and wisdom.

We do not believe this decision was made lightly. However, we respectfully and prayerfully ask that the finality of the decision to permanently close Catalyst Child Care be reconsidered.

Jesus welcomed children and reminded His followers of their value, saying, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these" (Matthew 19:14). We believe Catalyst Child Care has been a living reflection of this truth, creating space where children are welcomed, loved, and formed in faith.

We are asking leadership to explore any possible alternative that would allow this ministry to continue, even if it looks different than it has in the past. We are asking for creativity, collaboration, and renewed prayerful discernment about how this calling might continue to serve families and the broader community.

We also ask for acknowledgment of the emotional and spiritual impact this decision has had on families and staff. We respectfully request an opportunity to come together as a community to pray, give thanks, exchange contact information, and honor the teachers and staff who have faithfully poured into our children.

Our request comes from love for this church, gratitude for what has been built, and faith that God is still at work. We pray for wisdom, humility, and courage for all involved as you seek His guidance.

With respect, gratitude, and hope,

The Families of Catalyst Child Care

UPDATE: I am truly humbled by the outpouring of support and the way people have shown up around this. It speaks volumes about the heart of this community.

I do want to clarify that this petition is intended specifically for members of Catalyst Church and for families who have been directly impacted by the closure of Catalyst Child Care. Because I was not able to restrict who could sign, I wanted to make sure that intention was clear so the voices represented reflect those most closely connected to this ministry.

If you are not directly impacted but feel moved by this situation, we would sincerely appreciate your prayers and your support in sharing this with those within the Catalyst community who may wish to participate.

Thank you for the care, compassion, and encouragement so many have shown during this time.