Sunday School – 9:30 am Sundays

The mission of Sunday school at the Church of the Redeemer (guided by the Children’s Ministries Committee) is:

…to provide a loving and nurturing Christian environment in which each child can:

• Become aware of, and feel a part of, the heritage of scripture, tradition and worship.
• Develop a sense of being loved and accepted as a unique child of God, and a member of a community of the people of God.
• Respond in love to God, community and creation.

Sunday School

The curriculum for Sunday school is based on age appropriate needs. The teachers of our preschool class use "Godly Play" storytelling materials to tell Bible stories and "wonder" with the children about what they mean. Grades K-6 use “The Episcopal Children's Curriculum” which is thematic, Bible story-based and teaches about the Episcopal church (for more information go to Morehouse Educaton Resources). The 7th grade is using a curriculum called "Making it Real and Relevant," based on lectionary readings for each Sunday, and using current movie and music clips to help connect the Bible stories with the lives of 21st century teens (for more information go to See Spirit Grow).

In addition to the curriculum, two special series occur each year providing an opportunity for children in grades K through 6 to move out of their classrooms and break routine. These programs are designed and implemented by our Children's Ministries Committee.

Confirmation Class 9:00 am - 10:00 am Sundays

The confirmation program is a two-year program for grades 8 and 9 that culminates with confirmation by the Bishop in May for 9th graders who choose to make their adult affirmation of their Baptismal vows. The curriculum was developed by a task force, in consultation with Redeemer clergy, and is taught by lay volunteers and clergy. The content is taught using small group exploration, games, discussions with clergy, and drama.

Outreach Projects Chosen for Children's Participation:

“Within-Reach” is a way the committee has devised for connecting with Redeemer parishioners who are not able to get to church on a regular basis due to health conditions or mobility restrictions. Sunday school children of all ages occasionally write “hello” cards with bright and cheery drawings to let the recipients know they are being thought of.

Making ornaments for the “Giving Tree” in Advent is a way for church school classes to help the parish effort to contribute Christmas presents for the children of Paul’s Place.

During Lent, 2008, we participated in a diocesan effort ("Bread for Itipini") to raise funds for a tiny villlage in South Africa. We began with an introductory hunt activity, then incorporated Itipini lesson plans into our regular program each week, then sent our proceeds to the diocese after Easter.

Church school classes worked together after Easter to plan and host a baby shower in May to provide a fun, interactive way to gather clothing and other items needed by the Honduras Mission Team for babies living in and around the village of Atima.

Those who offer help with Children's Programs:

• We have a 17-member Children’s Ministries Committee, which meets once a month to evaluate and plan programs and curriculum for children.

Nancy Bell Beth Chatard Les Goldsborough Steve Jones Maggie Kallmyer (chair) Naomi Klarner Katie Litkowski Holly Martin

Tamara Pitard Fern Jeffries Riley Martha Socolar Beth Van Dyke Chip Ward Trish Ward Josh White

 
• We have 26 adults and teens on teaching teams to teach pre-school through 9th grade during the education hour on Sunday.
• We have 13 people who work in the nursery on a rotation basis.
• We can always use more volunteers!!

For more information or to register, please contact The Rev. Sandra Etemad or 410-435-7333 ext. 228