General description of offerings for children and youth for the September-June church year
On Sunday mornings, at the 10am service, all children start in the service for the beginning of worship. After the children’s message, children/youth head off for religious education (see below) until the end of church when they reconvene with their parents. After church, all are welcome to join us for hospitality time in fellowship hall.
On Thursday afternoons, we have two youth group offerings (see full description below).
During the month of December–“Advent” in the church calendar–we have several festive events (cookie walk, children’s fair, wreath-making) and we remember the story of Christmas with a pageant.
During Lent, the 40 days leading up to Holy Week and Easter, we share in traditions and preparations, including hands-on projects and learning stories of Jesus.
All children are welcome to participate in the choir that meets for practice on Thursday evening and Sunday morning; and shares in the 10am service on Sundays.
Detailed Program Information
Sunday Mornings, 10am Service: Religious Education is offered for two distinct age groups (or a mixed age group if five or fewer kids are present)
● Infants/toddlers: Care provided in the nursery/playroom by church staff and a volunteer as needed
● PK-1st grade: Facilitated by Conway and Ana DeSousa, and a volunteer as needed
● 2nd grade and up: Facilitated by Stacey and a volunteer
● This year, we will be using the curriculum ‘Faith Practices’ from the United Church of Christ and ‘Sanctified Art’ during Advent and Lent.
Confirmation
● Offered within the context of either/both winter/spring service retreat(s)
● Confirmation church service in the Spring
“Thursdays of Service” – Middle School Youth Group
● Staff meet children at the Ipswich Middle School and drive to the church
● Programming includes check-in time, music making, snack, prayer/reflection time, baking, visiting elders
● Time: from school dismissal (meet at 1:15) to 3:45
“Cairnbuilders” – Elementary Youth Group (Thursday afternoons)
● Programming includes check-in time, making art for elders, snack, creation care/ecology projects with Ipswich River Watershed Association, games, and mindful/prayerful moments
● Time: school dismissal (1:50) to 3:45
Communication: Children/youth faith formation updates can be found in the church’s weekly newsletter. Let us know if you would like to be added to the list to receive these!
The Safe Church Policy: All children are protected at First Church by our Safe Church Policy. Children are always supervised by two adults. Our teachers and staff are screened for safety backgrounds, and are trained in the Safe Church principles of the United Church of Christ.
Want to get involved? Email firstuccipswich@gmail.com
First Church in Ipswich, MA 