Children and Youth Christian Formation
Sunday Morning Sunday School -- Sundays at 9 a.m.
Nursery
The nursery is open on Sundays from 9 a.m. until noon. The nursery is staffed each week with two very loving, competent, paid caregivers who watch over infants and toddlers. Parents are invited to check on their children at any time. We do ask that when you bring your child to the nursery you sign in and also indicate who may be authorized to pick up your child. If you wish, you may pick up a silent (vibrating) pager so that you can be notified if your child wants some parent time or if the caregivers have a question or concern. (If you are interested, ask about French lessons for your toddler during nursery time!)
Pre-K thru Second Grade
Godly Play is the name of the curriculum for this age group, which is based on the insights of Maria Montessori. Children at this age learn by sharing Bible stories, the church calendar, and worship. But the method is to allow the children to play with the parables and stories of our faith with lots of hands-on time.
Our program for these children and youth is similar to the one-room schoolhouse. Teachers are supported by classroom “grandparents.” Godly Play teaches children the art of using religious language - parable, sacred story, silence and liturgical action - helping them become more fully aware of the mystery of God’s presence in their lives. This program honors the child's natural sense of the sacred and seeks to provide a richly structured environment in which the religious potential of a child may freely develop.
This year, we will have a alternative section of Godly Play class which will run concurrent with the 10:30 a.m. church service. This class will serve the pre-kindergarten through the fourth grade. The children will return to their family for communion. This class does not replace the regular 9:00 hour class.
Grades 3 thru 6
A Joyful Path encourages children to convert the stories of faith into practice as they follow the path of Jesus. This program affirms that:
• We believe that seeing all as ONE is how we can experience the realm of God.
• We believe that joy is not dependent on material success or outward circumstance.
• We trust the Spirit that flows through us and all people.
• We create moments of stillness in which we quiet the chatter of the mind.
• We accept responsibility for our actions and for changing our ways if we cause harm.
• We forgive those who have harmed us and let go of our anger.
• We do not judge others.
• We have compassion for all beings.
• We are generous of our heart and our possessions.
• We try not to worry about what we don’t have, about the future, or about the past.
• We help those that are in danger or are suffering however we can.
• We celebrate and laugh, and we live in joy and wonder.
Christian Discovery for Youth—
Junior and Senior High.
In earlier classes, our youth have learned the stories of faith, and have thought about how they might follow the path of Jesus. These students are beginning to wrestle with the implications of faith on their journey into adulthood. Peer pressure, sexuality, consumer society, financial pressures, planning for the future all seem to come together for these students. This class will assist them to reflect on their issues as people of faith through the resources of the Bible, the traditions of the Church, and our common worship. Open discussions on living their lives will follow the teaching of Christ.