People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them. — Mark 10:13-16
Parents register their children each year for Sunday School, prior to their child’s attending class. Registration is done in-person, at parent meetings in late spring and summer, or at individually-scheduled appointments at St. John’s.
Sunday School meets on the 2nd – 5th Sundays of the month, from 9:15 a.m. until 10:50 from September through May, except for major holidays on the Boulder Valley School District calendar. Cancellations due to weather will be noted on the Events listing on the front page of the St. John’s website by 7 a.m. Children should have turned three by September 30 to enroll in Sunday School.
Our classes are staffed by dedicated volunteers who give generously of their time and talents. Sunday School parents choose at least two weeks out of the year to assist in their child’s classroom but are not required to lead that class. Parents are always welcome to drop in and visit. Parents must remain on the St. John’s campus while their children are in Sunday School.
All children, Preschool through 4th grade, currently participate in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for Sunday School. Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, coordinated by d’Layne Kerr-Layton and Kate LeMere, is a Montessori-based program rooted in the Bible and the liturgy of the church. Children gather in an Atrium (classroom) that contains handmade materials designed for small hands. The atmosphere is calm and quiet, and activities are self-directed. Children have lessons about Christ’s life and teachings, our history as a people of God, and our worship life as Episcopalians. There’s also time for silent prayer and for singing. To learn more about Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, visit their website.
Children in Preschool and Kindergarten are in Level I; older children are in Level II. We have a limited Level III program as well. Children go directly to the Atrium at 9:15 and are picked up at 10:50. The more regularly children attend Sunday School, the better their experience will be.
During August and September, all children receive an orientation to the program. Children joining us after September will need a special orientation to the program, so they can participate fully. Typically, this orientation takes place during the week, prior to the child’s first Sunday.
Please contact Director of Children’s Ministries, Cathy Ode at children@stjohnsboulder.org or 303-442-5246 ext. 107, to learn more.
