Youth Formation

Education is central to our capacity to grow as disciples of Jesus and to live out our Baptismal Covenants. At Church of the Epiphany, we believe very strongly that our whole lives are spent growing in the knowledge and love of God, and that our work forming ourselves as Christians is never done.

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Babies & Toddlers

We welcome worshipers of all ages. If your child needs more “wiggle room,” a diaper change, or feeding, you may continue worship downstairs in the audio-equipped nursery.  There is a “Wiggly Worship” space in our sanctuary for those who need a little more space to stand and move than a traditional pew.

Options for Youth Formation

 

At Epiphany we believe in lifelong formation in Christian faith beginning at baptism.  Children are formed from infancy by attending worship as often as possible —  absorbing the sounds, sights, rhythms, and repetition of the prayers and practices. 

 

Birth – 3 years: Children are primarily in worship. Families are invited to sit toward the front so they can be visually engaged with what is going on but there are “Wiggle Room” options as well. The rector on occasion may invite them to participate! And don’t worry about little ones making noises — sounds are welcome signs of their curiosity and energy.

Children ages 3–6: A Children’s Chapel with the Rector and adult leaders will be offered seasonally, often on a Saturday afternoon for an hour.  This will be a time to learn the rhythms and prayers of worship, receive some basic Eucharist education (which they may receive as soon as they are able to eat the bread), hear the foundational Bible stories and learn about Jesus’ life and love for us.

Grades 2 – 8: Faith Formation Events will be offered 6 times per program year (on the same afternoons as Children’s Chapel). These will feature a seasonally appropriate faith-based lesson, Bible story, activity, discussion and/or service project. We’ll end with fellowship over supper.

Grades 7+, Youth Group: This group will meet seasonally for fellowship, community service, discussion of contemporary issues and more.

Youth ages 8+: All of our young people in this age group are invited to be acolytes, readers, and ushers. Many serve in one or more of these capacities with responsibilities that can evolve as they grow.

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Growing into our Community

Our children learn about Jesus’ love for them and for the whole world through all we do at Epiphany while practicing Christian values through service to those in need. The most lasting and formative opportunity for our young people of every age is be present in worship with parents and loved one’s actively modeling and engaging them in the patterns of prayer, singing, and Holy Communion.

We believe that some of the most important Christian Education takes place outside of Sunday morning. Finding ways to recognize and love God in daily live is an important skill to develop. Special events throughout the year build community, love, and empathy for all of our parishioners but especially the young. Some special events include:

  • Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper

  • Maundy Thursday — washing of the feet, stripping of the altar, and church family meal with food prepared by our Youth

  • Easter Egg Hunting

  • Pentecost Youth Sunday Celebration

  • Summer Holy Hikes

  • Blessing of the Animals (October)

  • Advent Labyrinth Night

  • Service Projects

To register for any youth formation program, please contact the office directly.

All teachers are required to complete a national background check and to follow the trainings and recommendations of the Safe Church program.