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
Sunday School and the rest of children's programming is staffed by volunteers. Therefore, to register for Sunday School, parents also must complete and return a Children’s Ministries Volunteer Form. There are many choices available, from classroom teaching to one-time tasks. There’s something for everyone...and we need something from everyone!
For children ages three through nine, we offer two different Sunday School programs. Parents choose the program that best fits their family’s needs.
Developed in Rome in 1954 by a Hebrew and Scripture scholar, Sofia Cavalletti, and her Montessori collaborator, Gianna Gobbi, the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is an approach to the religious formation of children that is rooted in the Bible, the Sacramental and Liturgical Life of the Church, and the educational principles of Maria Montessori. Children gather in an atrium, a room prepared especially for them, which contains simple, yet beautiful, handmade materials that help them learn about the life and teachings of Christ, become familiar with the sacraments and liturgy, and nurture their own spirituality. Each session builds on the one before it so this curriculum is recommended for families who attend church on a regular basis. Children go directly to the Atrium at the beginning of the Sunday School hour rather than attending Children’s Chapel.
This lectionary-based Episcopal curriculum features stories, games, skits and crafts. Because the program follows the Lectionary, the children have the same Bible lessons as those read in church each week, allowing for family discussions. Kindergartners in this program begin the Sunday School hour in Children’s Chapel. Preschoolers spend the entire Sunday School hour in the classroom with their teachers.
Children in 4th grade use the "Living the Good News" curriculum, a
lectionary-based Episcopal program featuring stories, games, skits and
crafts. These students begin the Sunday School hour in Children’s Chapel and then go with their teachers to their classrooms in the education wing. Because the program follows the lectionary, the children learn about the same Bible lessons read in church each Sunday, allowing for family discussion.
Breakfast Club is our Sunday morning program for 5th graders and middle school students. This program is led by the Director of Youth Ministries and adult volunteers.
As young adults in the church, high school students are encouraged to attend worship with their families. More information about educational opportunities for high school youth can be found in Youth Ministries.
For more information, please contact Cathy Ode, Director of Children’s Ministries, at 303-442-5246, ext. 107 or by email.
