Children's Ministries
Children at St. Stephen’s are provided a safe, healthy environment of enriching activities in order to learn and grow. Included in their Sunday School classes are many hands-on experiences used to teach Bible lessons, including art, science, math and literacy activities. St. Stephen’s has established a developmentally appropriate environment for the children in our care.
Childcare is available from 8:15-noon while parents attend worship services and Sunday school. In addition, children from preschool through fifth grade have Sunday school classes with their own age group from 9:40-10:40 a.m.
“Children’s Time” is offered during both worship services. Our pastor interacts with the children in a developmentally appropriate lesson about the Bible teachings for that day. After “Children’s Time,” preschool through second grade children may return to sit with their family or go to “Celebration.”
During Celebration, preschoolers play outside when weather permits or enjoy centers during inclement weather. Kindergarten-through-second grade Celebration involves storytelling and independent choices utilizing art and story figures for reflection.
Children in third to fifth grades attend worship services with their families. Quiet activities are available in the loggia. They also have their own worship journals. Children in this age range are invited to become Acolytes (candle lighters).
The Children’s Ministries Team consists of the director of Educational Ministries, the director of Children’s Ministries, the Children's Ministries Assist, the Facilities Assistant and the Children’s Choir director. Paid staff and volunteers care for our children and teach Sunday school. All paid and volunteer caregivers undergo Safe Sanctuary training and background checks.
Children have an opportunity to participate in the Children’s Choir. The Children’s Choir periodically performs during the 10:50 a.m. worship service. They also have occasional programs during Advent and in the spring.
Annual events planned for the children and families of St. Stephen’s include the Easter Egg Hunt, Children’s Sabbath, Neighborhood Block Party, the children’s mini CROP Walk to Stop Hunger, the Unicef Carnival at Halloween, the Advent Workshop, Green Team and Vacation Bible School.
