Learning
Faith Formation for Children, Youth, and Adults
Sunday School for Children
(3 years old-5th 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 “Picture The Bible”, a UCC resource with artwork that invites children, youth, and adults to explore the biblical story and its meaning for our lives.
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
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.
Exploring Race Book Group
Book group meets 1-2x/month to discuss a book, articles, or other resources that help us to grow in our understanding of race and discern how God is calling us and our church to faithfully respond to the racial tensions and inequities of our time.
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.