We strive to offer our children a Church School program which actively engages their minds, hearts and imaginations as living members of the Body of Christ.
Our Church School program is a multi-sensory exploration of the Bible. Children are encouraged to ask questions, and to see the broad narrative in scripture rather than just looking at its disparate parts.
Every week, in addition to the Bible story, children work on individual or collaborative art projects that help them journey deeper into the story with their hearts and minds even as they engage it creatively with their hands.
Children are also encouraged in basic scripture reading, discussion, and memorization as building blocks for life-long creative dialogue.
Who Can Come? All 1st – 5th grade children are welcome in the St. Mary’s Church School.
Registration: In the fall, we hold one Church School ‘open house’ where all children may come with their parents and register. After the open house, children may be registered for Church School by contacting the church Office.
FAQ
How does Church School work?
Children meet their teachers at the front of the church during the Eucharist and take communion with the choir. Then they exit the church and follow their teachers to their classroom and have Church School during the beginning of Sunday Brunch. Children will be escorted to Sunday Brunch at the end of Church School.
What will Church School be like for my child?
Every Sunday there will be two teachers in a classroom. One teacher will be assigned the role of Storyteller. This role focuses on engaging the children and inviting them into the story and the activity. The other role is the Doorkeeper. This role focuses on requesting good behavior of the children and kindly reminding them when they’re not following these behaviors. If a child will not respond to a respectful request to re-engage group interaction, the Doorkeeper may leave the classroom to fetch a parent or caregiver.
What will my child be learning?
Our story-based curriculum focuses on the Bible. The curriculum combines narrative with visual aids (for instance, a “desert box” filled with sand). These visual aids provide a greater context for understanding and exploration. The Storyteller will enact the story and ask children questions that allow them to imagine themselves as part of the story.
How do I have my child baptized or confirmed?
If you are a parent or caregiver interested in baptism or confirmation, please contact the church Office.