The Christian Education Ministry:
The mission of this ministry is to enable all people of the church to learn and grow in the spirit of Jesus Christ. Specifically, the ministry is responsible for:
*Developing and conducting all church school activities, adult education, and youth programs and events
*Management of curriculum and supplies
*Teacher recruitment and training
*Educational and service-oriented pilgrimages for middle school youth and adults
Programs are designed and led by a team that includes members of the Christian Education Ministry, the Pastor, and dedicated volunteers. We have active, ongoing education programs for all age groups. Programs for the children include:
*Sunday-School for children in pre-school through 7th grade. Classes are held during church each Sunday. Because team teaching is implemented wherever possible, two people share the load. This means that teachers can teach and attend church on alternate Sundays. The Christian Education ministry (specifically including the Sunday School Superintendent) selects curriculum in consultation with the Pastor. Most of the lesson planning is provided to teachers through the curriculum.
*Confirmation classes for middle school students. The Pastor leads this effort. A mentor (usually chosen by the Confirmand from among the members of the church) guides each participant through the confirmation process.
*Vacation Bible School each summer that is attended by 35 to 40 children from the church and the surrounding community. Most of the faculty is drawn from our congregation. Again, the curriculum is provided which greatly facilitates the role that teachers play.
*Summer single all age Sunday-School classes that are conducted each week. The curriculum is provided and different teachers volunteer for each week.
*A traditional Christmas pageant is held each year. Virtually all the children in the church play some role. The pageant is a highlight of the Christmas season for the church and the entire community of Wayne. The pageant is followed by a dinner that always fills the Parish Hall.
*A Youth Group of middle and senior high age students meets on particular Sundays for times of fellowship, learning, and fun. The group also participates in various mission programs and recreational activities including retreats, bowling, and movie nights.
We also have periodic adult educational programs, such as forums on particular issues as well as ongoing education and adult Bible study. These sessions provide adults with opportunities to foster Christian relationships, discuss topics of interest, learn, share experiences, and grow together. Each year, a group of adults and the Confirmands goes on a weekly pilgrimage to learn and serve. Past pilgrimages have included trips to Washington D.C. to learn about the Holocaust, to Memphis-Nashville to explore Civil Rights history and issues, and to a camp in Ohio to strengthen faith and commitment while building and repairing facilities.
How can I become involved in the Christian Education Ministry?
*Do you want to share your love of Christ with our children? Serve as a Sunday-School team teacher.
*Volunteer to serve as a substitute teacher or serve as a teacher for one Sunday during the summer.
*Be part of Vacation Bible School for a day or a week by teaching, assisting, or providing goodies.
*Act as an advisor to the Youth Group or offer to provide transportation to an event.
*Help at the Christmas Pageant to wrangle babies, dress cherubs, gown angels, robe the kings, or quiet the donkey outside the Sanctuary door.
*Volunteer to serve as a mentor to a confirmand.
*Suggest a topic for adult education or attend a Bible study.
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