Children and Youth
Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them,
for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.
We Are All Children of God
Our Christian Education program is staffed by volunteer teachers and teacher’s aides who have committed themselves to providing a safe, loving and nurturing environment for all children. Through involvement in Sunday School and Youth activities, we aim to help our youth discover God’s living presence in their lives at home, in church and in the world. You do not need to be a member for your children to join any of our Sunday School or Youth programs. All are welcome!
Every person who is in any position to interact with your children in either an educational or advisory capacity has been through our Safe Church Training program. We instituted this policy as one means to safeguard all of our children against any types of harassment or exploitation. We would be happy to provide you with a copy of our Safe Church Policy, which is on file in both our church and Sunday School offices.
Our Groups
Pre-K to Second Grade
All Pre-K through second grade students meet in one classroom. This school year, children are studying Bible lessons from both the Old and New Testament using the curriculum Whirl. Sunday School is held at 10 AM each week and ends when the sanctuary service concludes.
Third to Sixth Grade
This school year, third through sixth grade students learn as a group in one classroom. Students are using the curriculum Whirl to study Bible lessons from both the Old and New Testament. Sunday School begins at 10 AM every week and finishes when the sanctuary service ends.
Seventh and Eighth Grade
Youth in seventh and eighth grade begin preparations for Confirmation study, which typically takes place in ninth grade. The goals for these students are to know, grow and show: know the Word; grow in the faith; and show through service to others. Classes are held at 10 AM each week in the Boardroom and end when the sanctuary service concludes.
Confirmation Class
Pastor Ed leads confirmation candidates through a year of study, prayer and reflection in preparation of this profession of their faith. Each confirmand is paired with an adult mentor who will help them explore the basics of Christianity. Most students begin the process in ninth grade, but confirmation is open to any high school aged person.
Pilgrim Fellowship
Sixth through twelfth graders are invited to join the PF youth groups. In past years, group members participated in a number of special trips and service projects, including retreats at Silver Lake and volunteer work with the homeless and less fortunate. All middle and high school aged youth are invited to join PF, church members and non-members alike!
Talk to a Leader
Meet
Jacqui Owens
Jacqui Owens has been a lifetime member of First Congregational Church of Stratford. She served as a Sunday School teacher for five years before becoming a certified teacher for the State of CT and working in communities with underserved youth. She has since piloted Open Choice education programs in two cities in the past two years and served as their family and community outreach coordinator. At FCC, she has been involved with Chancel Choir, the Social Justice Team and the Contemporary Worship group. She is very excited to be joining her church team to grow our Youth and Christian Education programs.