Children and Youth are always valued here.
We are a church for all ages, valuing every stage of life. Whether your child is a newborn about to be baptized, a toddler in the nursery on Sunday mornings, an elementary-aged student in church school, or a pre-teen or teen hanging out in youth group and being confirmed, we have a place for them here.
In all of our children and youth programs we are committed to our safe church policies. All staff and volunteers have been background checked, and we always have more than one adult present at all times. We also are committed to being a safe and affirming space for all, including LGBTQ students and their families. Keep reading to learn more about our programs.
Faith for a Lifetime
Infants and Toddlers
We invite families with new babies to celebrate the sacrament of Baptism with us. In Baptism, we formally recognize each child as belonging to God. We also pledge, as a church, to partnering with the child’s family to provide a spiritual and moral foundation for their whole lives.
Because we know worship can be hard to sit through for our youngest, we have a nursery open during church with an experienced caregiver and a background-checked volunteer. (We also know that sometimes parents need a little time to be still and worship while knowing their children are safe and happy.) Children are always welcome to remain with their parents as well, and we certainly do not mind hearing them express themselves in church!
Elementary-Aged
As your child begins their last pre-K year, we invite them to join us in church school during Sunday worship. Children begin in the sanctuary with their parents. Following the first hymn we have a children’s sermon. From there, they exit to our church school classroom on the main floor for the rest of worship.
Our church school program is designed to engage young learners. Students learn about our faith, and the values we hold dear, while playing games, making music, acting out stories, doing science experiments (we’re pro-science here), and cooking.
Many of our church school teachers are professional educators, and all truly love working with our students. We are committed to being a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all.
Middle and High School
Starting in sixth grade students are invited to youth group, a place where they can form strong friendships while exploring their faith. We get together on Sunday evenings to share food, have fun, and talk about their lives.
During late middle school, typically in 8th grade, we also offer the rite of Confirmation. During this time students learn more about the Christian faith and are able to make a choice to affirm their baptisms and join the church.
In all youth activities we talk about faith and our everyday lives. We often talk about current events, local and worldwide, and how to best love God and neighbor in every situation. The goal is to create a supportive community where young people can grow together and find ways to live courageously and authentically.