You are invited to join us for fun, engaging Children’s Ministry Programs.  Friends are welcome any time!  All Children’s Ministry Programs are led by Director Ashley Bossert. 20150427_165641(1)

Children’s Sunday School

sunday school 5Sunday School begins at 10:30 am.  We offer classes for children ages 3 (preschool) – 5th grade.  Children have the opportunity to learn about the love of God through specially-selected curriculum from our amazing volunteer teachers.  We encourage the kids with hands on learning and a variety of activities to keep them engaged and eager to come back every week.

In addition, each quarter we will try to have a guest speaker (food pantry, shelter, etc.) to talk with the Sunday School children about how to serve others.  We may try to arrange a volunteer trip there, as well!

Please contact Children’s Ministries Director Ashley Bossert for more information.

Nursery

nurseryThe Nursery is staffed and available on Sunday mornings for children ages 5 and under.  The Nursery is located in the education wing.

Children’s Choir

Illustration of Kids Playing with Musical NotesChildren’s Choir provides special music during worship services once a month, typically the first Sunday of the month.   All children 3-5th grade are welcome!  We start rehearsal after the 9:00 service ends & finish rehearsal before Sunday School begins. 10:05-10:25. We will escort your children to their classes after choir.

 Vacation Bible School

Vacation Bible School LogoVBS is usually held in late June, from Sunday thru Thursday in the evenings.  We have fun singing and dancing, meeting new friends, eating snacks, playing games, and learning how we can trust in God to provide all we need.  We learned these important Bible Lessons last year:  God has the power to provide, to comfort, to heal, to forgive, and to love us forever.  Our VBS Missions last year supported “Fostering Hope” mission.  Whether you are a volunteer or a participant, VBS is a fun way to grow in your faith!

Contact Children’s Ministries Director Ashley Bossert for more information.

Christmas Play

Epiphany Play
Epiphany Play

Every year the children will host an Epiphany play or a Christmas Play.   All the children get to play a part in this amazing story of Jesus!

Every child attending Sunday School will all have a part in this play, if they wish!

Rehearsals for the play take place on Wednesday nights from 6:30-7:30 pm during our normal MidWeek Ministries time. Come join us for the fun!

This kiddos have a blast being in the play!

Children in Worship Services

Worship is one of the basic ways people learn what it means to be Christian. Children learn worship by worshiping with the congregation each week. Our worship services are child friendly, and we try to include children in worship. Below are a few of the ways we include children in worship:

  • Children’s Time – Approximately twenty minutes into the 9:00 worship, is children’s time where the children come forward to the altar. The pastor or designee has a short, topical message for children about this week’s sermon.
  • Acolyte – An acolyte is a worship leader and learn how to light the Altar candles. Their job is important because they help everyone else in church worship God. Children in 3rd grade and older can serve as acolytes.
  • Quiet Bag Ministry – Quiet bags are available for children during the worship service. The bags are located just outside the sanctuary doors and include coloring pages, lacing activities, books, and other quiet activities.
  • Music – The children’s choir typically sings during the worship services on Communion Sundays (September through April).

Safe Gatherings

Safe Gatherings LogoElkhorn Hills UMC has a Safe Gatherings ( formerly Safe Sanctuary ) Policy that outlines our procedures regarding the safety of children and volunteers. All teachers and workers, ages 16 and older, who work with children, youth, and vulnerable adults, are required to be certified through Safe Gatherings. Certification is good for 4 years. If your certification is at least 3 years old, you should go through the certification process again at this time.

Any questions can be answered by Pastor Nancy Davis.

Volunteers

VolunteerWe are always looking for volunteers to help with the Children’s Ministry Programs. We have lots of different ways you can help, whether it is teaching in the classroom or helping with one of our special events. We have something for everyone!!

If you are interested,  please contact Children’s Ministry Director Ashley Bossert.  Thank you!