Christian Education at Our Church
We are excited that you are considering your child’s religious education with us here at First Congregational Church. We offer classes for children ages 3 years old through 5th grade. Children typically begin in the worship service with their parents and then leave during the second hymn. The children are escorted by the Christian Education Director and Church School Teachers to the Marsh Parish House (building located behind the meetinghouse) for their classroom lessons. Some children prefer to stay through the entire hour-long worship service with their parents, and that’s ok, although most have more fun and get more out of the Church School environment.
Church School
We encourage all children to participate in church school. We are Live every Sunday via TEAMS. If you can’t join us we can email you a copy of the lesson. To join us, or for more information, please contact the Church Education Director.
The following is a summary of what children of different ages can expect when they go to Church School:
Classes are divided by grade; PreK-2nd grades and 3rd – 5th grades. Each class is designed to work within the child’s writing and reading comprehension level while learning the basic stories from the Old and New Testaments through storytime, crafts, games, songs, and even acting out the story. Each lesson is taught in such a way that no one will feel lost because they may have missed a week or are new to the church. Water and a light snack are provided. Church school ends at 11:15 am. Your child will be escorted back to Fellowship Hall. Our 6th and 12th graders are used as teacher helpers in our classrooms and nursery.
General notes: Each of the age groups above are taught by a small team of volunteer teachers dedicated to that age group who get to know the children throughout the year.
Throughout the church school year, the children have opportunities to “perform” for the congregation through songs, skits, and during our end-of-the-year Children’s Service held the second Sunday of June. During the summer, Church School is an All Ages, one room schoolhouse classroom. The children usually enjoy more games and activities during class time.
Bibles: “The New Adventure Bible: The NIV Study Bible for Kids” is given to our 3rd grade students each September and to new students 3rd grade and older as they enter the church school program.
Communion is served the first Sunday each month. Every age is welcome to our table. Communion is served to each person in their pew by a Deacon.
Confirmation Class is open to any student 8th– 12th grades.
Our Youth Group is a fun, welcoming, supportive group, where kids can explore and grow as we work, play, sing, serve, worship, eat, and reflect together.
Vacation Bible Camp
The camp is held in late June after school is out for the summer. Open to children 3-6th grade.