Ministering to Children and Youth

Nursery

9:15 a.m.—10:30 a.m.

Nursery is available during the first worship service for infants and toddlers through two years. It is located on the main floor across from the sanctuary and staffed with adult volunteers.

Children

Families are encouraged to attend church together every Sunday. At the 9:30 a.m. worship service, children and youth of all ages are invited to sit together in the front pews for the opening of worship. The young people participate in the Call to Worship, Opening Prayer, Gloria Patri, Passing the Peace of Christ. They use their own special bulletins and record their attendance in a pew registry. This time includes a children’s message. On occasion, children share in baptisms and other special celebrations. Adult leaders greet and sit with the children. Family members are welcome to sit with the children, too.

Sunday Morning Program

9:45 a.m. — 10:40 a.m.

After the children’s message, the young people exit worship to attend the Sunday Morning Program. There are three groups in the program appealing to youth three years through eighth grade. Each group begins with a Gathering Time which includes a snack.

Little Lambs

3 and 4 year olds

This group meets in the Middle Classroom on the second floor for snack, Bible story, activities including crafts, and organized play time. Making friends and seeing Jesus as a friend are primary focus.

Young Christians

5 through 9 year olds

This group meets in the Big Classroom on the second floor for snack, games and crafts. Story time introduces Bible characters, events, and Christian values and relates them to the present. Children become more familiar with the Bible and begin a closer relationship with Jesus as friend and savior. Children participate in song and prayer.

The Sunday Morning Programuses Whole People of God Online curriculum. It is a lectionary-based, ecumenical resource that empowers all ages to be transformed in Christ. It explores the mystery and meaning of the Bible, celebrates the sacraments and events in the liturgical year, and encourages growing in faith through prayer, love, service, justice, and witness. It is supported by the United Church of Christ.

Youth Group

10 — 13 year olds

Youth Group is the third level of the Sunday Morning Program. Depending on the lesson, they meet in the Youth Room on the second floor or in Fellowship Hall. Group building and faith exploration are the primary focus.

This class serves as preconfirmation. Learning about the Bible, discussing Christian celebrations and concepts, and establishing a relationship with Jesus prepare the youth for participation in the confirmation program. Combining faith with fun is an important ingredient. Class includes games, cooking, puppetry, and more.

Youth Group also enjoy social events like football games, pizza parties, and bowling. Bringing friends is strongly encouraged.