CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
UUMC believes that discipleship is a lifelong journey of faith.
The church strives to create an atmosphere that accepts, affirms and includes
all of God’s children, to provide opportunities for Christian growth and
discipleship, and to be an advocate for children in all area of the church.
Children In Worship
Childcare is provided for children younger than first grade, but children are
always welcome in our service of worship. They frequently participate in
leadership roles by reading Scripture, singing and playing musical instruments.
A children's bulletin is available to enhance participation and understanding.
Acolyte Program
When children enter third grade, they are invited to become acolytes. The word
acolyte means "attendant," "one who serves", or "helper". Our acolytes serve by
lighting altar candles, carrying the processional cross, and assisting in the
sacrament of communion. Acolytes serve through their middle school years.
Baptism
Children are welcomed into the baptismal covenant. Parents and their child can
speak to their teacher or the minister.
Sunday School meets weekly at 9:30am
An essential aspect of a child’s growth in faith. Classes (or toddler childcare)
are available for 2-year-olds through 5th grade. Sunday School age-appropriate
curriculum materials combine with caring teachers and generous facilities to
provide an encouraging atmosphere for spiritual growth. UUMC is a Safe Sanctuary
church.
Infants/Toddlers - Realizing the first image many
children experience of church is in the nursery, our first and foremost priority
is to provide loving care for infants through 2-1/2 years. We provide a warm,
safe, and caring environment.
2 ½ years old through Kindergarten – The younger
children learn to understand the Bible as a special book. Stories from Old and
New Testaments, songs, and activities taught in an atmosphere of care and
encouragement help children develop a love for the Bible. The school-age
children also respond to activities, lessons, games and music into a loving
environment as they develop faith foundations, know the Bible and faith
traditions, relate to God and the Church, and relate faith to our daily lives.
1st through 5th Grades - These children are
learning more about God's word. We use the "New Invitation" series which covers
Bible stories from the Old and New Testaments. These stories, together with
carefully selected activities, help children develop a respect for the decisions
they need to make.
They learn to use their Bibles, participate in the faith traditions of the
church, and build relationships with God, the congregation and the larger
community. We guide them to take responsibility for the decisions they need to
make.
6th thru 12th Grades - Youth from grades 6 through
12 are welcome to a morning of fellowship, discussion, sharing, and Bible study.
Sunday School classes focus on helping youth put Christian principles into
practice. They study Bible stories and topics including relationships, ethics,
service, and more. We meet for fellowship in the Youth Room at 9:30 a.m.,
followed by class at 10:00 a.m.
Music Makers
This is an elementary children's choir for grades K through 5. Using Orff rhythm
instruments and their voices, children learn to participate in worship through
their musical gifts. They meet regularly on Sundays immediately after the
worship service from the week after Labor Day through the week before Mother’s
Day. They participate in worship, first Sunday “food and fellowship”
opportunities, and holiday performances with their joyful noise.
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