Christian Education

In his many letters to the early church, St. Paul outlined the idea of Christian communities that would constantly be growing in faith and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.  At First Congregational Church, we strive to place spiritual formation for all ages at the very center of our life together.

We recognize that all believers are called to a lifelong journey of faith, and that the spiritual development of all of our members is vital to the vibrancy of our ministry to the world.  We, therefore, offer programs ranging from nursery care to Sunday School for children, as well as ongoing programs for youth and adults.

​Many of our faith development programs are run by our Board of Deacons, whose primary charge it is to support the spiritual life of our congregation.  Some offerings are led by our Pastor, Bonnie, while still others, such as our small groups ministry, were born from the talents and interest of a few congregants.  We embrace the challenge of continued growth for all of our members and welcome ​your ideas and participation. 

Registration Now Open

If you would like to register your child for Sunday School please click here – enrollment is ongoing.  Parents with children participating in the Sunday School program are expected to volunteer to help teach.  As a community of faith, we are all called to give of our time, treasure and talent in order to support the success of our growing community of faith and the programs we offer.  We appreciate the dedication of all of our volunteers.

Sunday School Curricula

FCC uses curricula from a company called Sparkhouse Media.  All of their curricula are bible-based and follow a format that includes lessons from both the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) and the New Testament.  They collaborate with many different christian denominations to ensure that their programs are theologically sound.

This year we are following a new curriculum for grades 1 through 6 called Whirl.  This program teaches kids about the important themes and parables of the Bible by focusing on relatable situations.  During Sunday School classes children engage in activities to explore the lesson, watch short video presentations that relate the text to life experiences, and use the learner leaflets to extend the learning from church to home for further discussion.  The format is easy to follow for volunteer teachers with minimal preparation time required.

In addition, we started a new curriculum for our youngest learners called Frolic – Preschool.  The lessons are play-based and specifically designed for this age group (3-5 year olds) using large posters to tell short stories.  To enhance learning objectives, there are a variety of “Center Activities” from which teachers can choose each week.  Of course, there is still plenty of time for free play and snack time. To learn more about Frolic – Preschool please click here.

Worship Activity Bags

A couple of years ago, we introduced personalized Worship Activity Bags (Busy Bags) for ALL members of the Sunday School.  These are located in the vestibule on coat racks as you enter the front of the church.  These bags include drawing supplies, fidget toys, lacing cards, reading materials, children’s bulletins, etc.  Research shows that keeping little hands busy helps them to concentrate and participate in the worship service.  Visitors are welcome to take advantage of the RED GUEST activity bags located in the back of the sanctuary.  Please feel free to ask an usher for assistance.

Confirmation

Confirmation is designed for 9th and 10th graders but is open to all who are in high school. The program will look at our Christian faith, our denomination, as well as explore how we integrate our faith into everyday living. This program is led by Rev. Bonnie, and Kristen and Bud Dodge.

Beginning in January, we will meet about every other Sunday following church.  In addition, we will do a service project in the spring as well as run the sunrise service on Easter morning.  The retreat in January is on Cape Cod.  If your child is interested, please let Paula know.  If you have any questions please reach out to one of our leaders.  Bud Dodge, Kristen Dodge or Rev. Bonnie.  We look forward to another exciting and fun confirmation year!

Confirmation is run every other year.