Learning

Faith Formation for Children, Youth, and Adults

Sunday School for Children

​(3 years old through 4th grade) - Sundays @ 9:15 am (September – May) Sunday School children gather at 9:15 am in the classroom, and join the congregation for the beginning of worship from 9:30-9:45 am. Following a children’s story time, children and teachers return to class for story-telling, crafts, singing, and other fun activities. Our current curriculum is “Shine: Living in God’s Light”, a dynamic Sunday school curriculum that engages Christian communities and families in their life together.

The first Sunday of every month children are encouraged to attend worship with their families and participate in Holy Communion. A nursery area is available, as well as quiet worship-themed activities for younger ones to enjoy throughout the service. In the summer, we host a Vacation Bible School program for children, families, and adults of all ages.

​Faith Formation for Youth

Middle School

(5th through 8th grade) meets each Wednesday evening during the school year from 6-7 pm to explore the biblical story and grow in their relationship with God and one another. Additional activities for service and just for fun are scheduled throughout the year.

High School

(9th through 12th grade) Gatherings are scheduled monthly.

Confirmation

(9th grade and older) Confirmation classes are held on Wednesdays from 7-8:15 pm and include Bible study, prayer and spiritual practices, worship participation, service opportunities. Our conversations explore diverse topics of faith, theology, and church. Confirmation preparation begins in the fall and concludes in the spring with a Confirmation service for youth who make the decision to be disciples of Christ. Each Confirmand is mentored by an adult member of the church throughout the year.

Safe Church

First UCC cares for the personal safety of every person, regardless of age, gender, race, or orientation. Particularly mindful of the vulnerability of children and youth, parents and guardians are asked to complete and update a First UCC children/youth registration form each year which includes emergency contact information, special needs and medical information that leaders should be aware of, and requires signed permission to be included in photographs, on social media, and/or church marketing materials. Also, all teachers and youth leaders are required to complete regular background checks and are trained to respect personal boundaries and safety plans.

Adult Study

Bible Study

Opportunities for small group bible study are offered throughout the year.  We believe that the Holy Bible is inspired by God and a living witness of God at work in the world. We believe that God’s story is still unfolding among us, still-speaking in new ways to inspire and address our contemporary times.

Spiritual Practices

Spiritual practices are strengthened through seasonal devotional calendars, booklets, and at-home activities. Recently, the congregation created Advent and Lenten booklets for home use.