Youth and Adult Faith Formation Opportunities
Faith Formation at St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church is a very
important part of our Christian life. This page is designed to
inform you about our Faith Formation programs and help you
consider ways in which you and your family can become involved.
We provide nursery care for our youngest members, a church
school program for children 3 years old through 8th grade,
Confirmation Classes, and a Sunday evening Youth Group (The
Coop). There are also opportunities for our children and youth
to participate in our worship life as acolytes (Grade 6-12) and
at our quarterly All-Age Worship Service. All members of St.
Aidan’s are encouraged to share their gifts by participating in
our youth and adult educational programs as often as possible.
On behalf of Saint Aidan’s …Welcome!
Children of all ages are welcome in our worship services.
NURSERY (6
months-3 years)
St. Aidan’s provides Nursery care in a warm, safe, nurturing
environment for the youngest members of our Church. It is
available every Sunday from 9:45 am until noon. Our staff
ensures plenty of care and attention. Parents may attend
services knowing their children are safe and happy in a
comfortable environment. The Nursery is located on the first
floor through the Parish Hall. If you or your children have any
special needs, please let the staff know.
GODLY PLAY
(Ages 3 - Grade 5)
– 9:45 meet on the playground or in the Parish Hall
Our Church School program is designed to allow children to
learn about God and Jesus, along with developing meaningful
relationships within our church family. Each Sunday, the
children return to church during the Peace so that they may
participate in Communion with their families.
Godly Play Sunday School curriculum was developed by Dr.
Jerome Berryman, an Episcopal priest, and is based in Maria
Montessori’s educational philosophy. Godly Play uses hands-on,
direct learning and creative, active participation to engage
children with their own spirituality and the Episcopal
tradition. In addition to the curriculum based lessons, children
are involved in stewardship activities as well as our quarterly
All Age Service in which they participate in nearly every aspect
of the church service.
The Church School program is operated by trained volunteers
who work as storytellers, and doorkeepers. Parents are also
encouraged to take an active role in the church school program
by participating and volunteering when able.
ONE ROOM
SUNDAY SCHOOL (Grade 5 – Grade 8) –
9:45 meet on the playground or in the Parish Hall
One Room Sunday School – includes comprehensive Bible study,
application of Bible lessons to everyday living, and a variety
of age-appropriate activities. Based on a 3-year cycle of
Bible stories, each Sunday includes a Song, hearing a Bible
story, learning a Bible verse, and individual activities based
on age and interest (coloring pages, word find, creative art
work, etc).
In addition to the curriculum based lessons, children are
involved in stewardship activities as well as our quarterly All
Age Service in which they participate in nearly every aspect of
the church service. Your input and participation in the church
school program is always welcome here at St. Aidan’s.
Youth grades 6-12 participate in the Liturgy's as acolytes
(altar servers) if they choose.
YOUTH COOP
Youth grades 6-12 are also invited to participate in the
cooperative youth group with 2 other churches that meet every
two weeks in alignment with the school year. The group is called
The Coop. All special youth group activities are intended to
blend fun, fellowship, and a sense of Christian purpose. The
group is divided into Middle school (6-8) and High school
(9-12).
CONFIRMATION CLASS
Confirmation classes for youth age 13-18 using “My Faith/My
Life” curriculum will be offered beginning each fall. For
adults who are interested in receiving Confirmation, reception
into this Communion, or to reaffirm their baptismal vows,
classes will be offered on an as needed basis. Contact the
Rector for more information about these programs.
ADULT
EDUCATION
Continuing faith formation is important to this community.
Adult Faith Formation is offered on Sunday mornings at 12:00
either in the Wajnert Room, or in the worship space. All are
welcome to participate in these classes which help us to explore
and live out our faith in our daily work and lives. Recently we
have participated in the Area Ministry “Washed and Renewed”
series, and Sojourners six-week Hungry for Justice curriculum
which offered daily readings and weekly small group reflection.
Individuals from St. Aidan’s also participate in the
Diocesan-wide Beloved Community quarterly training days, and the
new Ember Day formation day. See the Diocesan web-page http://diocal.org/
for more information about these special events.
EFM (Education for Ministry)
Education for Ministry is a program
designed for laity to provide theological study and reflection
rooted in the Scriptures and traditions of the Church.
This group meets weekly on Tuesday evenings throughout the
academic year. EFM includes printed course materials, shared
worship, snacks, readings, and theological reflection. Contact
the office for more information and tuition fees for this
program.