Just as Jesus gathered the children into his teaching and care, Children’s Ministry at Harvard Avenue serves from the same heart – that all might know Christ’s love shining brightly, that the joyful welcome of Jesus is felt by every heart.
We believe church should be a place where children want to be, where they learn new exciting things about God each week. We believe in the gift of time and presence, and explore faith through music, stories, crafts and games. Our children’s ministry leaders, storytellers, shepherds, and caregivers are committed to providing a warm environment where children of all ages feel safe and loved.
Our Children’s Ministry ~ lovingly called The Orchard (where we are planting our roots in Christ (Col 2:7) and growing in the fruits of the spirit (Gal 5:22) ~ is tailored for the needs of each age group so that every interaction will be a positive and helpful experience.
Sunday Mornings
During Worship (9am & 11am):
Children begin in the sanctuary at worship with their families, and are then invited to be part of Children Worship and Wonder, a multisensory storytelling that brings God’s word and people to life in remarkable ways. We believe it is important that children have both the whole-church experience AND the opportunity for faith lessons that are directed to their specific learning needs and expressions.
Sunday School (10am):
Children gather in classes by age (within a two-year range) for lesson time. Under the care of parent and member volunteers, children learn scripture, music, and caring for others in age- and development-appropriate experiences.
Nursery care is available all morning Sundays. A nursery for babies under 3 years of age is provided with its own developmental program.
Ongoing Ministries
PARENTS NIGHT OUT (PNO)
A great time for Harvard Ave parents to have an evening out, and a really great time for the kids to be here at the church for friendships, crafts, games and other great learning activities.
> 6pm-10pm, 2nd Fridays (Oct/Nov/Dec 2019; Feb/Mar/May 2020)
> for infants through 5th grade
> youth helpers (6th grade + older) always welcome!
CHILDREN’S CHOIR
We have wonderful Children’s Choirs offered for Kindergarten students through 5th grades. The children’s choirs prepare in short-term rehearsals as part of Sunday School and PNO gatherings, and share in our worship services. Each student also receives a rehearsal CD so they can play and sing along at home!
* Children’s Christmas Musical :
CAKE – Christmas Acts of Kindness Experiment
Sunday December 15, 4pm
This year’s event will include a pre-show with our preschool choir, smaller k-5th grade ensembles, and a youth ensemble.
AND stay afterwards to join Children’s Ministries families for a ‘Happy Birthday, Jesus!’ party!!
Children’s Music Director : Ashley Pease
FAITHFUL FAMILIES WORKSHOP
Hands-on activity centers will teach activities to take home to connect your family with the holy and sacred. All formations of family are invited – all the people we nurture and call ours. Discover ways to share in : night time blessings, a gratitude tree, smartphone prayers, secret helpers week, and more! Each workshop closes with a fellowship meal prepared and served by volunteer families. The events are free to attend, but a $10 donation to cover the cost of supplies is welcome.
Faithful Families Workshop : Sunday November 17, 4:00 – 6:00pm
RSVP to Children’s Pastor Darlene Martinez by Wednesday November 14.
two more FFWs to come in 2020!
Annual Events
Easter Eggstravaganza // Fall Family Festival
Seasonal events for children and families, these spring and fall special occasions include games, crafts, food, prizes, music, and more! Parent volunteers and supporters from the congregation create fun and exciting events for our children and their families; friends from the neighborhood, and our two neighboring schools, are always invited.
Easter Eggstravaganza: Saturday April 20 2019, 4:00-5:30pm.
Fall Family Festival: Sunday October 27 2019, 4:00-5:30pm.
Vacation Bible School
June 3 – 7 2019, 10am – 1pm
TO MARS AND BEYOND: Explore Where God’s Power Can Take You
A week-long adventure sets off each summer as children 4 years through 5th grade explore a Bible theme from every angle. Adventurers enjoy a week of faith development, fellowship, music, science, storytelling and FUN!
Contact Rebecca Morris or Leslie Armstrong for more information (or to volunteer!).
Kanakuk KampOut!
June 17 – 21 2019, 8:40am – 4:00pm
Created, sponsored, and directed by the widely-known Kanakuk Camps, this Christian day camp for kids is hosted for one week at Harvard Avenue Christian Church.
For information, questions, or to register: visit Kanakuk KampOut!, select ‘availability’, and scroll to the Harvard Avenue listing.
Summer Spotlight
A Theater Arts Camp for Kids!
July 15 – 19 2019, 10:00am – 2:00pm
Created by Children’s Music Director Ashley Pease, this week of musical fun will feature a closing performance on Sunday July 21 @ 10am in the Family Life Center.
For students who’ve completed 2nd – 5th grades.
Cost is $50 and includes an awesome t-shirt, CD, and water bottle.
Participants will need to bring a lunch.
REGISTER here.
Contact Ashley Pease for more information (or to volunteer!).
