Infant through Grade 5
Mission Statement
The mission of Children’s Ministries at St. Mary’s is to help each child grow into the full stature of Christ and to teach each child to love whatever is just, true and good in an atmosphere that promotes the recognition of the church community as a place of love, acceptance, support, and exploration, through education, worship, outreach opportunities, and fellowship.
SUNDAY SCHOOL PROGRAM
Sunday School for ages 3 through Grade 5 is provided during the 11 a.m. service each Sunday during the school year. In the summer months, there is one service at 10:00 a.m. A group class is taught for ages 3-6; older children attend services with their parents.
Ages 3 to Kindergarten
These classes are taught beginning at 11 a.m.
Jr. Kindergarten and Kindergarten
Junior Kindergarten is intended for older 4-year-old children and 5-year-old children who are deferring Kindergarten for another year.
Kindergarten is intended for children who are actually enrolled in a school kindergarten program.
Grades 1 to 5
Children in these classes accompany their parents to the 11 a.m. service and are later dismissed for Sunday School; however, on “2nd Sundays” (see below) children should go to their classrooms at 11 a.m.
Second Sundays
On the second Sunday of the month, children will participate in these monthly activities:
- 3-4 year olds and JK/K children attend Wee Worship Service
- 1st -3rd Grade Children’s Chapel
A children’s service is provided in the chapel of Little St. Mary’s.
The service includes a reading from the Bible, songs, story time, and prayer. - 4th & 5th Grade Outreach Sunday
4th and 5th Grade students work on a special outreach project.
Sunday Morning Nursery Program
For 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Services
Nursery care is provided for infants to age 3 by caring adults hired by the church who are assisted by parent volunteers.
3-year-olds
Upon turning 3, a child transfers from Nursery care to the 3-year-old Sunday School class and may remain in that class for the following year.
SPECIAL WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Children’s Service of Lessons and Carols
This Christmas Eve service at 5 p.m. involves the children and youth of our parish. The Christmas story is told through readings and song. Children participating must attend the practice, generally held on the Saturday morning before Christmas.
Easter Procession
On Easter Sunday, the Sunday School children proceed into the church to place their flowers at the base of the cross. This activity is followed by a special Children’s Easter Chapel service in Little St. Mary’s.
Outreach Opportunities For Families and Children
These programs help our children develop their own sense of ministry to those in need.
Thanksgiving Dinners
Families decorate and fill boxes with canned and boxed foods for families in need in the Goochland area.
Christmas Giving Tree
Children select the name of a child or adult from the tree to receive a gift at Christmas.
CARITAS Family Night
Through games and activities, children and parents provide hospitality to the homeless guests provided shelter at St. Mary’s for one week in cooperation with CARITAS (Congregations Around Richmond Involved to Assure Shelter).
Easter Basket Project
Children and their families prepare Easter Baskets which are distributed to children in need in Henrico County.
Fellowship Opportunities
Fall and Spring Parish Picnics
Our congregation gathers several times a year after the 11 a.m. service for a potluck picnic lunch and games, entertainment, and fellowship for all children and families.
Vacation Bible School
Offered during the latter part of June for ages 3 to grade 5 Vacation Bible School provides a week of singing, movement, crafts and storytelling centered on a guiding theme, led by parent volunteers.
Grade 5 and older children are welcomed as helpers. Click here for the 2011 VBS Registration Form.
Mardi Gras Party
During this Shrove Tuesday pancake supper, children are entertained with festive craft projects and other activities.
Easter Egg Hunt
Children ages 3 to grade 5 enjoy this hunt between the 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. services on Easter when our churchyard is filled with surprises to be found!
We need your help!
As we are all blessed with the joy and care of children, please join us in this most rewarding ministry! Parent teachers and volunteers are an integral part of our programs. To volunteer, contact Anna Johnson, minister to children at ajohnson@stmarysgoochland.org or at 784.5678 ext. 18
