Christian Education at East Church: an Overview
The philosophy and leadership of the Christian Education ministry are focused on the well-being, spirituality and education of children and the church as a whole. Our goal is to support families and children by helping them know, love and follow God.
East Church’s commitment to Christian Education is intrinsic to our core values. As part of the Rally Day service in 2009, the congregation joined in the following pledge:
We believe that the educational ministry of this church is our opportunity, our responsibility and our joy. We will share our faith with each other — children, youth and adults alike. We will make this church a community where all can experience the love of God. We will support the staff of our educational programs of this church in their various ministries. We make this promise with God and with each other for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Teacher.
Under the leadership of East Church’s C.E. Director Pamela Curran, the Sunday School program puts children first and provides excellent support for teachers. All families should fill out a registration form in September (or as new attendees) to provide teachers with any pertinent personal information about their child.
East Church has been the foundation for raising my children in the Christian faith. The church has always demonstrated kindness and provided support. Allowing my family to worship and grow in spirit, East Church is an extension for our own family.
Ellen K., parentThe Christian Education Committee is made up of our C.E. Director, teachers, and interested church members. This committee facilitates the Christian Education Program and plans intergenerational events for the whole community. Examples of recent events include: Palm Sunday Easter Egg Hunt and Donkey Rides, Christmas Eve Pageant, Advent Festival, and Children’s Sunday (a special service run by the Sunday School Children).
Children are invited to attend the first part of the church service with their families. Children receive an age-appropriate bulletin as they enter the sanctuary. These bulletins follow the lectionary reading of the day and are designed to teach as well as allow the children to pass the time constructively until church begins.
Early in the service, the C.E. Director (or pastor) will deliver a short Children’s message in front of the altar, highlighting a simple idea aimed at the child’s level. Afterwards, the children are invited to follow their teachers to their Sunday school classrooms.
