A Family Affair
We recognize that parents are the primary spiritual teachers of their children, and we want to support parents in this venture. We also know that parenting isn't easy! We plan intergenerational events from time to time to help families within our diverse community to get to know one another. These events take place at various times to accommodate the varied worship and education schedules offered in our congregation.
Sunday School
Caring, trained teachers lead classes from preschool through college on Sunday mornings in three different sessions, from 9:30 to 10:00, from 10:00 to 11:00, and from 11:15 to 12:10. All volunteers who work with children go through a background screening process in accordance with our Shepherd program. There are two adults in each class; in some classes parents volunteer to assist teachers on a rotating basis. Teachers teach Bible stories and practical life applications. At this time we offer craftmaking during the scripture reading and message during our 9:00 am service. In the fall of 2008 we initiated Godly Play at 10:00 am, a play-based approach to Sunday school which employs Montessori teaching methods.
Confirmation
Students in grades 6–8 examine their faith and the meaning of their baptismal covenant in a seven week Confirmation Class, held in the winter and spring, including a weekend retreat where they will meet Bishop Warner Brown of the California-Nevada Annual Conference. The class culminates in a festival Rite of Confirmation in the spring, at which time young people are welcomed as full members of the United Methodist Church.
Child Care
Angela Santillan and Di Wu are our loving and competent professional nursery care providers. Child care is provided at all worship services and by request for church meetings and classes.
Youth Groups
Following the graduation of our seminary intern in the spring of 2008 and her subsequent appointment to full-time pastoral ministry elsewhere, along with graduations and moving away of some of our young people, our youth group is presently in a time of transition. Youth participate in many of the worship and mission ministries of the larger congregation and are welcomed as full participants. Solomon Chi leads a Bible study group for young people on Sundays at 11:00, and parents are organizing other occasional events to help the youth stay connected. Interested youth may attend any of a variety of United Methodist summer camps offered at sites throughout Northern California, and scholarship assistance is available. Check the youth bulletin board for a current schedule of youth activities.
Children's Library
A well-stocked library is available for children to use before worship and to check out books to take home.
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