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Children
Jesus welcomed children in His arms, saying, "Let the children come to me, for to such belongs the Kingdom of God." It is Nativity's privilege to welcome and encourage little children of God to serve Him together with older 'children.' The Bible encourages us to 'train up children in the way they should go, so that, when they are older, they may not depart from it.' The parish considers it a solemn responsibility to help children grow into the likeness of Christ. Though the primary Christian educators of children are their parents, the parish ministry with children offers major support.
Children’s Christian Education & Spiritual Formation
Our mission is to help children, just as we do adults, be Safe in God's hands, Shaped in His image, Serving in His mission. We do that by gathering in small group communities of multi-age classes during Sunday's 10:00am service. Our younger groups take a Montessori-like approach with the Godly Play program focusing on telling God's story and responding to it creatively. Our older students use an open discussion style format to discuss the Bible and topical issues over donuts. Children join their families back in the service for Communion. Nursery care is also available, as well as a separate family room and a quiet play area.
Children's Music Programs
Our two youth choirs, Christian Kids Music Factory (K-gr4) & Spirit Singers (gr5-12) practice separately (CKMF right after communion at the 10:00am Sunday service & S.S. Sun 6-7pm) but help lead worship together on the 3rd weekend of the month and other special times. We sing, pray, have fun and plan special trips as a group.
Holy Communion
Children are welcome to receive Holy Communion with the consent and instruction of their parents. Parents are encouraged to speak with one of the clergy about this. Also, all children in Grade 2 are encouraged to join the Rector and their parents for three Saturdays in Lent for further instruction about the meaning and significance of this most important Sacrament.
Summer Camping Programs
The parish offers to subsidize one-week stays at a number of regional Christian camps where children and youth encounter our Lord and grow as His faithful followers.
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