Children’s Formation
At baptism, we pray that the newly baptized will be given, “an inquiring and discerning heart, the courage to will and to persevere, a spirit to know and to love you, and the gift of joy and wonder in all your works.” (BCP, 308)
This describes well what we hope to impart to our children. Through worship, teaching and fellowship, we hope they will be nurtured in the faith and rooted in the love and care of our community.
Current Children and Family Formation
Godly Play
Pre-K through 2nd grade
Godly Play is a Montessori-based program that introduces children to Christian Scripture and worship through storytelling and liturgical play.
Growing in Christ
3rd through 5th grade
Growing in Christ offers a series of lessons designed to help children learn and actively participate in Christian worship. On a three-year rotation of “Service to Others,” this year our 3rd-5th graders will focus on serving parishioners in our St. Matthew’s community.
Children’s Chapel
With the goal of making worship more meaningful for both children and parents alike, we offer Children’s Chapel during the 10:30 a.m. service at St. Matthew’s! Children in grades K-5 are invited to leave with our Children’s Chapel leader after the Opening Collect, and return to sit with their families during the Exchange of the Peace. During this time, children will worship and learn together in a service specially designed for their own formation and development. Children’s Chapel is offered during the Program Year.
Village Church
Intergenerational worship (referred to as Village Church) is held monthly at 9:15 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. We offer Eucharist as well as musical accompaniment. We invite all members of our parish family—not only those with young children—to join us for worship. On these Sundays, classes are combined (Godly Play, Growing in Christ, Youth, and The Sunday Forum).
Nursery
Children 5 & under
Children ages 5 and under are invited to stay in the Nursery with our Nursery Attendant, Jane Fischer, and a nursery volunteer. Childcare is provided Sunday mornings from 7:55 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. as well as during special services such as the early Christmas Eve service. Whenever possible, nursery time will include a short Bible story or lesson to help little ones take little steps to big faith. If you have questions, or would like to volunteer in the nursery, please contact the nursery parent liaisons, Heather and Patrick Cummings.
Children’s Choral Offerings
PreK through 5th grade
Children’s Choral Offerings are God’s gift to the entire congregation for deepening our expressions of prayer and praise. They are also an important opportunity for our children to learn the sacred music that is a central component of Christian education and formation. To optimize this opportunity, we encourage all children to participate. Angela Jones teaches the musical selection to children in Sunday School in the weeks prior, and children rehearse in the church that morning at 10am. Please do join us!
Special Children’s Programs
In addition to regular Sunday activities, we also offer special programs and events for children throughout the year. Some examples are:
October: Blessing of the Animals
November-December: Advent Wreath Making, Christmas Pageant
February: Secret Pal’s Breakfast, Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper
March-April: Palm Weaving on Palm Sunday, Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Sunday, Communion Instruction
Questions about Children’s Formation?
Email our Director of Christian Formation, Stephany Lazo, if you have questions about Children’s Formation.
We’re glad you’re here and hope you’ll find St. Matthew’s to be a place of worship, sustenance and welcome for your family.