This is a great place for a kid to grow up
Children are not second-class citizens in our church. We believe childhood is sacred, play is essential, and children learn and grow best alongside their grownups. God gave children exuberance and curiosity, and we try hard not to squash those gifts. The theology we teach is positive and affirming.
Safe, supportive, caring
Some families are looking for pumped-up, age-segregated ministries. Here, we prioritize experiential learning, caring relationships, and being together as a whole church family. Smaller churches offer many chances for meaningful interaction between different age groups, which research shows is a key ingredient for lifelong faith.
All children’s ministry leaders have completed Safeguarding God’s Children training and background checks are performed on all children’s ministry volunteers.
Children and Youth Formation
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Sunday morning classes for kids
During the school year, we offer two kinds of classes: Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a montessori-style approach for our younger children, and a discussion / activity-based class for our middle schoolers.
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"Little Liturgy" Space
Near the front of our church (but with a hidden entrance for easy exits) is a kid-size version of nearly everything you’ll find in the worship space. Children under 5, with their grown-ups, are welcome to worship and explore in this space.
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Episcopal Youth Collaborative (EYC)
Our youth ministry for 6th-12th graders is a shared program between several churches in the central Arkansas area. We partner so that young people can grow, learn, and serve alongside their peers, which is so important at this age.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a unique approach to the spiritual nurture of young children. Based on the work of Sofia Cavalletti and Maria Montessori, this offering recognizes that children are already in touch with God in their deepest being. It is not "Sunday School," in the traditional sense of the word, with adults imparting information to children. Rather, adults—specially trained for their work as "catechists"—accompany children on their spiritual journey, with the Holy Spirit as the primary teacher.
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For 3-6 year olds. This is a montessori-style approach, where children learn through contemplation, hands-on exploration, play, and repetition.
Main teaching point: Jesus is the Good Shepherd and calls us each by name.
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For 2nd-5th graders. This is a montessori-style approach, where children learn through contemplation, hands-on exploration, play, and repetition.
Main teaching point: God is the true vine, and when we are connected to God, love and goodness flow through our lives.
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For middle schoolers. This inclusive, engaging, relational youth class includes developmentally appropriate lessons organized in the categories of Self, Society and Spirituality. The sessions Incorporate Bible study, prayer, service projects, serious and fun activities, reflection and discussion.
