Welcome Families!
Children are born with an innate sense of wonder and faith that is real and authentic. First Church believes we have a responsibility to nurture that–to provide a foundation of experiences on which children build a life of learning and growth toward a mature and vital faith.
Psalm 78:4
“We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done.”
The goal of our Children’s Ministry is to provide children with support in their faith journey and to share the stories and teachings of Jesus so that they may experience his deep and unconditional love. We want to build a strong foundation for each child that will be everlasting.
Our Children’s Ministries focuses on children from birth through grade 5. Because parents, families, teachers, and care givers are vital to the spiritual formation of children, our Children’s Ministries includes (and relies on) all these people. It really does take a village.
Nursery and Childcare during worship
If you need childcare during worship, we provide a safe and loving environment for infants through age three in the Noah’s Ark nursery on the main level. It is staffed from 9 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
Children’s Sunday School
Our Sunday school program is the primary means for teaching our children what it means to live in the manner of Jesus and for building a community among our young families.
After the Children’s Moment during weekly worship services, Sunday school is available for ages 3 through grade 5. All ages meet together for a time of worship that includes songs, Bible stories, and prayer before branching off for an activity related to the story.
Sunday Morning… JOY Kids!
Learn, Wonder, and play at First UMC!
Each month a rotation of topics and teachers will explore JOY:
Jesus, Our Neighbors, and Yourself.
Jesus (2nd Sundays) – where kids will explore bible stories, learn about Jesus’ life and ministry, and explore theology at age-appropriate levels. It is a time to ask questions, listen and wonder about answers.
Our Neighbor (3rd Sundays) – where kids will be in conversation about what it means to love our neighbors. This will include service projects, conversations about compassion and love, and opportunities to seek justice around the issues kids already care about.
Yourself (3rd Sundays) – where kids can explore what they love to do! Through a variety of activities, including art, music, yoga, meditation and prayer – all an important part of how one can learn & grow in their personal faith.
1st Sundays: Communion Sundays – we will continue to have kids stay in worship with families or play in the nursery. Being an active participant in worship is an important part of BECOMING the church community!
Other Programs for Children
We offer many programs throughout the year to help children grow in their faith including Vacation Bible School, the children’s Christmas pageant, Bibles for third graders, and camp scholarships.
Children may participate in worship as acolytes or water bearers, and when more programs return, there will be additional opportunities for children to get involved in communion and baptism. It is a great way for them to become familiar with worship and other sacred events.
To learn more about our Children’s Program or to arrange for a visit, contact Mallory Yanchus.