Children & Youth Learning

First and Third Sundays, 9:30 a.m.-10:15 a.m. September-July, Parlor

Join us for this special service for babies, toddlers, and their families to connect with one another in a service. Whether your little ones are giggly or grumpy, like to observe from the side or run around the room, all are welcome in our Worship Circle! We’ll bounce and sing, shake and drum. Together, we’ll learn songs, poems, scriptures, and liturgical elements that can enrich a family’s spiritual life at home. This is a space for setting rhythms and building relationships—growing together in faith and community. Older siblings are welcome!

Questions? Contact or Jenny Bennett, Director of Youth and Family Ministries, at [email protected].

Sundays, 11:15 a.m., Parlor and Rooftop, September-May

This fall, our Church School program invites children and the grown-ups who guide them to Live in Wonder. Each Sunday, children will explore foundational stories from the Old Testament beginning with creation stories in Genesis and continue through the lives of Abraham and Sarah, Jacob, Moses, and others. As we approach Advent, we turn to the hopeful promises of Isaiah and the awe-filled “yes” of Mary.

Rooted in curiosity, creativity, and care, our Church School program invites children to engage with sacred stories through wondering questions like: “Where is God in this story?” “What does this story make me feel?” “What does it mean to be brave, to belong, to be led? “Rather than seeking easy answers, we create space for mystery and trust, helping children discover how ancient stories can speak to their lives today.

Church School begins when children gather in the sanctuary at 11:00 a.m. and leave with their teachers following the Children’s Prayer. Classes take place in the Parlor and on the Rooftop, and children are picked up in the Parlor directly after worship by a parent or other approved adult.

Each Sunday also includes a strong musical foundation led by our family music coordinator, Rachel Barker-Asto. The program opens with joyful singing, helping children of all ages befriend their voices, learn theologically rich music from around the world, and explore the great hymns of the church.

Throughout the year, children also learn about worship in hands-on ways: lighting candles, writing prayers, and engaging with the elements of worship, including the sacraments, in a nurturing environment that reflects the core values of our church.

Questions? Contact Jenny Bennett, Director of Youth and Family Ministries, at [email protected].

Sundays, 12:20–1:00 p.m., Parlor, September-May

By offering their voices in worship at least five times each year, our Student Choristers are
leaders in the spiritual life of the church All first through sixth graders are invited to be part of
this meaningful, joy-filled community!
We rehearse every Sunday after Church School, building community and growing together as
we:

• —Develop a lifelong love of music-making
• —Learn to read music notation, supporting personal music study
• —Explore scripture and spiritual elements through song
• —Deepen our understanding of worship traditions
• —Practice blending our voices to praise God

Questions? Contact Rachel Barker-Asto, Family Music Coordinator, at [email protected].

Last Sunday of the month, 10:00–10:30 a.m., Mezzanine, September-April

Club 345 is a monthly gathering for third through fifth graders, giving them a chance to connect with friends, grow in faith, and discover how they can make a difference in the church and the world. Each session includes a fun blend of leadership development, hands-on spiritual practices, and preparation for our Junior Usher ministry.This joyful, welcoming space is designed to support children as they navigate the unique joys and challenges of this special stage of childhood. Whether we’re learning how to greet others with confidence, practicing mindfulness, or discovering what it means to serve in worship, Club 345 helps kids feel grounded, seen, and empowered. Come lead, learn, and laugh with us!

Questions? Contact Jenny Bennett, Director of Youth and Family Ministries, at [email protected].

Monthly Friday Dinners, September-May

These monthly gatherings filled with food, fellowship, and purpose offer space for meaningful connection, laughter, and hands-on service projects that make a real impact in our church and community. Throughout the year, youth will also serve in leadership roles across church life—from helping lead worship, to organizing outreach events, to supporting younger childrenin their faith journeys. Whether you’re new or a long-time participant, there’s a place for you here to grow, lead, and belong. Come hungry—for food, fun, and a faith that acts.

Questions? Contact Jenny Bennett, Director of Youth and Family Ministries, at [email protected].

Confirmation

In our Reformed tradition, Confirmation is the journey we take to learn more about our faith and connect to the Baptismal vows our parents and caregivers made on our behalf. First Church holds an exciting 12-week course where youth have a safe place to ask questions, explore, and grow in their understanding of faith and spirituality. Our next Confirmation class will take place during the 2025-2026 ministry season. If you have a youth in grades 7, 8, or 9 that is interested in joining the confirmation journey, please email Jenny Bennett, Director of Youth and Family Ministries, at [email protected]. 

Questions? Contact Jenny Bennett, Director of Youth and Family Ministries, at [email protected].

Family Events

Throughout the year, the whole family is invited to gather for joyful events to celebrate the special holidays and milestones in church life. Some of our family events include movie nights, mini pumpkin decorating, a Christmas celebration, and Graduation Sunday. Be on the lookout for announcements of these additional offerings!

Questions? Contact Jenny Bennett, Director of Youth and Family Ministries, at [email protected].