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.
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 Children’s Room. There is a rocking chair in the rear of the sanctuary and space to walk around.
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: Second and fourth Sundays of the month, young parents are offering a “co-op” childcare model during the Service of the Word in the first half of worship. This is an opportunity for play, socialization, a Godly Play Bible lesson and building fellowship. We encourage children to attend worship with their families on other Sundays in order to become accustomed to the rhythms of the community. The Rector, on occasion, may invite them to participate in the sermon or service!
Grades 2 – 8: Faith Formation Events will be offered periodically through the program year. These will feature a seasonally appropriate faith-based lesson, Bible story, activity, discussion and/or service project.
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.
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.