Youth and Children's Program
Our aim is to partner with parents to nurture an active faith, and a deepening relationship with God, in the children and youth of Good Shepherd.
Our programs are Bible-based and provide links with the Prayer Book and our links with the wider Anglican Communion.
Our programs are Bible-based and provide links with the Prayer Book and our links with the wider Anglican Communion.
Classes Run Sundays from 9:15 am to 10:15 am- Labor Day thru Memorial Day
Classes:
(The age ranges in Atria 1-3 will be flexible to ensure the best learning experience for all the children)
Atrium 1 (ages 3-5)
The program in Atrium 1 will often include elements of the Godly Play teaching method, alongside traditional teaching methods. Based on the Montessori teaching method, Godly Play encourages children to use their curiosity and imagination as they encounter the stories of Scripture. Worship and prayer are also key elements in this classroom.
Atrium 2 (ages 5-8)
Atrium 3 (ages 9-11)
The program in Atria 2 and 3 is the Episcopal program Weaving God’s Promises. Its aim is to teach children and youth how God’s promises of salvation are woven into our lives; the way of Christ, not only in the church but also in the world as Christ’s ambassadors; to give children and youth a solid grounding for future youth and high-school formation programs, which prepares them for Christian adulthood; and to foster the spiritual formation and growth of our children and youth in Christ’s love and mercy and to teach the spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation.
Youth Forum (ages 12-16)
A varied program designed to engage the youth in discussing the Bible, spirituality and matters of faith relevant to their lives and the world in which they live; involving them in the worship, mission and outreach of the church; and giving them confidence in their Christian and Episcopal identity. Several of our Youth attend the monthly Diocesan Youth Program on the first Sunday afternoon of the month. They are also encouraged to take advantage of the opportunities to attend Diocesan Youth events, including Beginnings and Happenings.
Vacation Bible School
Each year we provide a new VBS program, which is either purchased or home grown. These all have a particular theme to encourage faith development, while having a lot of fun. Recent themes have included a Funfair, becoming a monk for a day, and discovering the ins and outs of cathedrals. Science, cooking, woodwork, sewing and other handcrafts are among the many activities offered to support the Bible links and prayers.
Summer Sunday School
For the last few years we have provided a Summer Sunday Program for 3 – 11 year olds. This will have a spiritual theme.
(The age ranges in Atria 1-3 will be flexible to ensure the best learning experience for all the children)
Atrium 1 (ages 3-5)
The program in Atrium 1 will often include elements of the Godly Play teaching method, alongside traditional teaching methods. Based on the Montessori teaching method, Godly Play encourages children to use their curiosity and imagination as they encounter the stories of Scripture. Worship and prayer are also key elements in this classroom.
Atrium 2 (ages 5-8)
Atrium 3 (ages 9-11)
The program in Atria 2 and 3 is the Episcopal program Weaving God’s Promises. Its aim is to teach children and youth how God’s promises of salvation are woven into our lives; the way of Christ, not only in the church but also in the world as Christ’s ambassadors; to give children and youth a solid grounding for future youth and high-school formation programs, which prepares them for Christian adulthood; and to foster the spiritual formation and growth of our children and youth in Christ’s love and mercy and to teach the spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation.
Youth Forum (ages 12-16)
A varied program designed to engage the youth in discussing the Bible, spirituality and matters of faith relevant to their lives and the world in which they live; involving them in the worship, mission and outreach of the church; and giving them confidence in their Christian and Episcopal identity. Several of our Youth attend the monthly Diocesan Youth Program on the first Sunday afternoon of the month. They are also encouraged to take advantage of the opportunities to attend Diocesan Youth events, including Beginnings and Happenings.
Vacation Bible School
Each year we provide a new VBS program, which is either purchased or home grown. These all have a particular theme to encourage faith development, while having a lot of fun. Recent themes have included a Funfair, becoming a monk for a day, and discovering the ins and outs of cathedrals. Science, cooking, woodwork, sewing and other handcrafts are among the many activities offered to support the Bible links and prayers.
Summer Sunday School
For the last few years we have provided a Summer Sunday Program for 3 – 11 year olds. This will have a spiritual theme.