Christian Development for Children and Youth

“Walk with me; I will walk with you.”
(From Voices United #649 )

Christian development for our children and youth is a very important part of who we are.  The children and youth are divided into age-appropriate classes; all of which use the “Feasting on the Word” curriculum.  "Feasting on the Word" is a lectionary-based resource that follows the church seasons, teaching “time-appropriate” lessons and connecting our adult worship to our children and youth programs.    It includes skits, crafts, games, prayers, litanies and bible study  so that age-appropriate learning and self-reflection happen at different age levels.  Our children and teachers enjoy using and learning from the “Feasting on the Word” curriculum as it provides fun and a variety of activities each week. The children and youth are divided as follows:

Y TOTS:  Newborn to 3 years of age

            Y KIDS:  Primary (kindergarten to grade 4)

         Junior (grades 5 and 6)

            The Y?:  Grade 7 and up                                  

Y classes meet during the Sunday morning worship. We welcome all and reach out to the children and youth of the community.

Y TOTS

 Our program from infants to age 3 is designed for fun and learning.  We have devoted and compassionate volunteers each Sunday to keep the littlest of God’s children safe while caring for their needs.  Our infant room is just outside the balcony for any parent who wishes to keep an eye on their child while in church.  Please feel welcome to bring your child any Sunday from September through June.

Y KIDS

 Y KIDS (JK –  grade 6)  participate with their families in the sanctuary for a small portion of the worship service each Sunday.  Afterwards, they gather together in the Fellowship Hall for the Y KIDS program.  They begin by participating in a “gathering worship” of their own, in a circle of friendship, which includes song, prayer, and a lesson from the “Feasting on the Word” curriculum.  Following this, children are divided by ages, primary and junior, and continue to their own classes.  Primary children participate in a craft that reflects the lesson taught.  Junior children participate in crafts bi-weekly, alternating with bible study.  They are encouraged to dialogue more deeply about their own thoughts and ideas and look deeper into the meanings of the lesson. 

Through special events and planning, the Y KIDS are learning about local and global mission work and participate actively in supporting this very important part of Christian life. 

Emmanuel has many wonderful, nurturing and supportive volunteers who plan and implement our children’s program.  Each child is able to participate in a fun and balanced learning environment whether they have typical or special needs. 

The Y?