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.
Under the guidance of Children’s Pastor Rev. Darlene Martinez, our Children’s Ministry ~ 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
Children Worship & Wonder (9:00am)
Children check in at our Children’s Welcome Center {during COVID-19 precautions, all children and adults will receive a temperature check}, and then join one of two age-appropriate Worship Centers for 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 have a worship experience geared to them – which includes the same elements as congregational worship, but in the CWW format – AND are given the opportunity for faith lessons that are directed to their specific learning needs and expressions.
Children’s Sunday School (10:30am):
Children gather in classes by age for lessons focused on scripture, bible stories, characters, and faith formation. 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.
Nursery Coordinator: Angela Nixon
For VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL and SUMMER SPOTLIGHT Theater Camp, scroll down!
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.
> As with much of our schedule, we are recreating PNO! Stay tuned for dates and times to come!
> 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!
This ministry includes presentation an annual Children’s Christmas Musical, and Summer Spotlight Theater Arts Camp (see below).
Children’s Music Director : Ashley Pease
Annual Events
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
CREATION SPEAKS!
virtual VBS, available beginning June 14
Again this summer, Darlene and Ashley have given leadership to a team with the Oklahoma Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) to create Virtual VBS curriculum. Available online, AND with complete supply kits for crafts, snacks, and more available at church June 14 – this VBS lets families connect on their own schedule, at home, together!
Come by the church to pick up your supply kit, or contact Pastor Darlene for more information.
SUMMER SPOTLIGHT THEATER ARTS CAMP
July 12 – 16, 2021 <> 10:00am – 2:00pm
Created by Children’s Music Director Ashley Pease, this week of musical fun will feature a closing performance on Friday July 16 @ 7:00pm in the Family Life Center.
For students who’ve completed 2nd – 5th grades.
Cost is $25 and includes an awesome t-shirt, CD, and water bottle.
Participants will need to bring a lunch each day.
REGISTER here. (open til June 28)
Contact Ashley Pease for more information (or to volunteer!).
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:
Fall Family Festival: to be announced
