Christian formation for youth and adults

ACOLYTES

The role of acolyte in Episcopal worship is important for young people. One way at All Saints that Christian formation and worship interplay is through the ministry of our acolytes. Acolytes play an integral part in our liturgy, and for youth, being an acolyte offers not just a way to serve and learn more about liturgy but the opportunity to provide leadership as well. Acolytes are trained by the Rector and serve in teams. Adults serve as acolytes at All Saints, too.

Reading the Scripture during worship

LECTOR MINISTRY

In an Episcopal Church the lessons appointed each Sunday for worship are set by the Lectionary. At All Saints our children take their place along with adults and are assigned to read the Second Lesson in the congregation. This ministry is open to all children and youth who take seriously the responsibility of proclaiming God's Word.

Christian formation for children

WORSHIP FOR CHILDREN

Church School starts with Children's Chapel. This unique setting is designed with child-sized appointments: altar, pulpit, baptismal font, and so forth. Our children themselves made altar hangings last year including cross-stitched kneelers, designed by Sarah Goretski - a Girl Scout project for which she received the bronze metal for service.

From 9:30 until 10:15 AM, Church School

BCC: Building Christian Character by

Building Colorful Christians - NEW!

This new curriculum will help parents target and provide growth initiatives for their children. Through the "BCC" program parents are invited to choose the virtues they most want their children to develop. The curriculum is then designed to nurture the skills and abilities necessary for those ideals to grow strong within the context of life at All Saints Church. Learn it here, live it for life. Youth will work on exploring the person they'd like to become - and help to design their own approach to "BCC."

Christian formation for children and youth

YOUTH SUNDAY

Youth Sunday helps to integrate Christian formation and worship. On Youth Sunday the liturgy takes on a youthful flavor with a sermon designed for children, and our youth take on added responsibilities. Along with their usual role as acolytes, our children and youth serve as greeters, read the lessons and prayers, and offer the Bread and Wine. The goal of this special Sunday each month is to honor our young people for the gifts they bring to the parish as well as to provide them the opportunity to practice the skills of worship and thus become conversant with Episcopal liturgy.

Special program for youth

THE YOUTH GROUP

The group meets once a month for lunch, program and other activities while our youth are fully integrated into the life of our parish, with opportunities to grow spiritually and learn leadership skills for Christian living. A special retreat called Happening for youth in grades 10 - 12 is especially encouraged.

Music for children

THE JUNIOR CHOIR

The Junior Choir sings at special times and for special events and worship throughout the school year under the direction of Sarah Eckermann. Children learn the special skills of singing, such as how to read music, and they join in our Lord's call that we "Sing to the Lord a new song!" The Junior Choir is open to all children who want to sing.