Christian Education
Christian Education Committee
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. Nd whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me.”
At RCC, we welcome children and teach them about the love of Christ. They are valued embers 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.
Children attend the first portion of the Sunday service in the sanctuary as a family. Each week, a child is chosen to light the candles on the altar at the beginning of the service.
After announcements, scripture readings, prayers and anthems are sung by our adult choir, the children come up to the steps of the chancel to participate in a special Children’s Moment. Pastor Jon talks to them in terms they can relate to, relaying the key message from his sermon for that day. This is an interactive time when the children are encouraged to answer questions and share their thoughts and feelings. Sometimes we even have furry friends participate in the message.
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, Pastor Jon 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 to 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.
Sparrow Spirit Youth Choir
RCC we are blessed to have such talented children who are willing to share their God given talents to enhance our worship service. Our youth choir called, Sparrow Spirit, started several years ago. They chose the name, Sparrow Spirit, because the Bible uses sparrows as an illustration of God’s love. A favorite hymn is entitled, His Eye is on the Sparrow. It reminds us that no matter how small we may be, God cares about us, provides for us and is always watching over us.
The group is currently practicing a two-part song called Shine, Shine Your Light! A very catchy tune featuring lyrics like, “Children of God, We are the Light of the World”, and embedding the classic, “This Little Light of Mine, I’m Going to Let it Shine.” We also practice songs that combine the youth and adult choirs. Through the Eyes of a Child and Teach Me to Walk in the Light are just two examples. We also have several amazing individuals who grace us with solos and duets.
Soloists have sung If We Seek Him in the Christmas pageant entitled, On Our Way to Bethlehem. The duet, Mary and Joseph’s lullaby opened the Christmas Eve Service. The triangle was played to enhance the pageant songs.
Bells
We also added bell ringing a couple of years ago. On Palm Sunday, we performed a song called Prepare the Palms of Praise. This selection combines the adult choir, hand bells and.
piano. For the first time, we will have adults and youth playing together as this is a very challenging piece. But, the bells add an element of joy to this anthem. Our Nursery and “Crying Room”
Our nursery is available for our youngest members, children up to three years of age. Radio transmitters are available which help us stay in touch with parents, if necessary.
Children’s Moment Children attend the first portion of the Sunday service in the sanctuary as a family. Each week, one of the children is chosen to light the altar candled at the beginning of the service
After announcements, scripture readings, prayers and the anthem sung by our adult choir, the children come to the steps to the altar to participate in a special children’s moment. Pastor Jon talks to them in terms they can relate to, relaying the key message from his sermon for that day. This is an interactive time where the children are encouraged to answer questions and share their thoughts and feelings. Sometimes, we even have furry friends participate in the message.piano. For the first time, we will have adults and youth playing together as this is a very challenging piece. But, the bells add an element of joy to this anthem. Our Nursery and “Crying Room”
Our nursery is available for our youngest members, children up to three years of age. Radio transmitters are available which help us stay in touch with parents, if necessary.
Children’s Moment Children attend the first portion of the Sunday service in the sanctuary as a family. Each week, one of the children is chosen to light the altar candled at the beginning of the service
Lessons vary from week to week, but may include a video, game or Bible verses which all relate to the specific topic. We are currently using a curriculum from FaithWeaver Now. A few topics have been: calling the disciples, the Beatitudes, Salt and Light of the Earth, and Miracles.
After their lessons have finished, children join their parents in our Fellowship Hall for snacks and time together. On special occasions, we will have an activity for children during fellowship, such as making a valentine card for a special person.
Library
Our church facility also contains a library filled with Christian literature, available to read there or to borrow and read at home. Our Library has a cozy nook where children may read a book or watch a DVD.
Gym
We are also very fortunate to have a gym in our facility, which is very large. Children can use the gym for Four Square and other activities.
