Christian Formation

Children

Nursery

A nursery for infants and children up to the age of three is offered on Sundays during Christian Formation classes and during the worship service. Parents may pick up their children at the time of the Peace, to join them for Communion, or at the end of the service.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, for children ages 3 through 5th grade, is offered every Sunday at 9:15 am from September through May. Two atria (classrooms) serve age 3 through Senior Kindergarten and first through fifth grades.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, based on a Montessori model, is an experiential approach to Christian formation. Children may respond to the meditations and presentations by working with the materials, by creating individual artwork and by participating in group celebrations within the atrium. The atrium is a place for religious life, for community and for worship. Materials are closely linked to biblical and liturgical sources, initiating the child into the liturgical life of the church, while grounding the teachings of Christ in time and place through biblical stories and geography. Atria are led by trained catechists.

Children's Chapel

All children ages 3-9 are invited to participate in Children's Chapel that begins at 10:25 am each Sunday. Children's Chapel offers children the opportuinity to hear the day's Gospel lesson in an atmosphere that allows for response and activity to help bring the story to life. A children's offering is collected and one child each week is chosen to accompany the ushers in church during the Presentation. Children join their families in church at the time of the Peace for Communion.

Youth

Christian Formation

Christian Formation classes for middle school and high school students are offered every Sunday at 9:15 am from September through May.  Classes, led by volunteer youth leaders, are designed to encourage the social, educational, moral and spiritual growth of young people within the embrace of a faithful, loving community.

Episcopal Youth Community (EYC)

EYC events, open to all youth in grades 6-12, include service projects and fellowship activities. The group meets as announced, usually on Sunday afternoons. Youth are also encouraged to participate in diocesan youth events and opportunities.

Adults

Rector’s Forum

An Adult Christian Formation class, usually led by the rector, is held each Sunday at 9:15 am from September through May in the conference room. Topics range from Bible Study to exploring contemporary church issues.