First Congregational United Church of Christ believes that education is a life long spiritual practice. We intentionally create a hospitable and safe environment, and we watch out for each other, especially when it comes to our children (to learn more, please read our Safe Church Policy).

We are Living Our Faith Together  (L.O.F.T.)
Parents are requested to fill in a L.O.F.T. Family Information Form.

Nursery Care (with qualified supervision) is available from birth to age 3.
parents are requested to fill in a form for each child)

Wee Explore: all children aged 3–5 years are invited to participate in Wee Explore. Adult leaders offer music, puppets, dance, and play opportunities to faith based shared activities for our youngest learners. Each one is encouraged to explore all of their senses as they come to articulate God’s presence in each life.

Exploring Our Faith invites learners aged 6–11 years to explore bible stories on Sunday morning. In response to the stories, children participate in singing, drama, games, artistic activities, and active discussion. Exploring Our Faith share worship and occasionally lead worship in the inter-generational community.

Outreach is recognized as important work in the United Church of Christ, beginning with our youngest participants. The Exploring Our Faith program includes outreach opportunities. Children trick-or-treat for UNICEF in the fall and they organize collections for Heifer International in the spring. The Go Green Gang, a children’s drama ensemble, actively engages the inter-generational community bringing lively stewardship reminders to the entire church family during worship.

The Liturgical Year is celebrated by our youngest learners. Each child comes to welcome the experience of Christmas and Easter by participating fully in the faith stories of Jesus in the context of Advent and Lent. The Inter-generational Christmas Play continues as an important tradition at First Congregational UCC.

Worship at First Congregational UCC supports the foundation of our church life. We welcome all ages into our community worship time.  Young learners with their unique abilities begin worship in the sanctuary with the entire faith community, following their adult leaders out to engage in active faith explorations half way through the worship service.  On the first Sunday of the month children return to the sanctuary near the end of the service to participate in Communion with the entire faith community.

Christian Education Newsletter is sent electronically each week to all interested church family participants.  It includes an update on programming for children, youth, adults and educational events for the entire inter-generational family. If you are interested in receiving the CE E Letter or in learning more about L.O.F.T. opportunities for you and your family call Rev. Bonnie Hardy at the Church Office or email her at 4bhnotes@gmail.com.