“Let the little children come to me … for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
(Matthew 19:14)
When the disciples asked Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Jesus called a little child and had him stand among them. And He said, “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name, welcomes me.” Matthew 18:1-5
At RCC, we welcome children and teach them about the love of Christ. They are valued members of our church family, each with a unique voice, personality and God given talents. Our mission, in concert with their parents, our Pastor and our Deacons, is to nurture and guide them and help them to understand God’s truths.
Rye Congregational Church is blessed with a very vibrant and dedicated Christian Education Committee that works tirelessly to make sure the children are learning and, most importantly, enjoying their lessons and activities which are many. Some of the additional activities the children enjoy are singing with Sparrow Spirit and performing solos during worship service, playing bells, participating in our annual Christmas Pageant, occasional family movie nights with popcorn, ice skating, and visiting with Pastor Jon during our Children’s Moment on Sunday Morning before Sunday School
The children gather for worship with the adults at 10 am on Sunday mornings. About 10-15 minutes into the service, following the opening prayer, Scripture, and a hymn, the pastor gives a special message to the children. Then they are dismissed to the Sunday School program. They re-join the adults following the service at the coffee hour fellowship in the Fellowship Hall.
Sunday School starts with prayer in the Church’s chapel then moves the classroom next door. The lessons, which mirror the subject of the sermon the adults hear during the worship service, are based on the life and teachings of Jesus. These are taught at a level children can understand and implement in their lives. They will learn that God loves them and all people. His teachings help everyone live a good and meaningful life here on earth and finally share eternal joy and peace in Heaven.