Children’s Ministry
Let the children come to me, for to such belong the kingdom of God.
Matthew 19:14
Children are an integral part of the St. Thomas community and the Children’s Ministry ensures that our children are engaged through educational, artistic, musical, and liturgical activities, helping them grow spiritually in an age-appropriate manner.
Before the pandemic, our children used to meet in our education building for Sunday School during the 10:30 am service. They would come into the church building to participate in the eucharist. Now, they meet online on Thursday afternoons from 4-4:45pm. Currently, the children are making their way through the Old Testament, particularly the Penteteuch. The aim is to give the children biblical literacy and knowledge of the contents of our salvation history.
Pastor Salying leads chapel once a month with the children. Her topics include liturgy, bible and contemporary events.
The children engage in the life of the church in various ways. Children are invited to join the life of the larger congregation as readers and intercessors. Yearly, even while online, the children and congregation participate in a Christmas pageant. The pageants are written by Sue Beckham, the director of the ministry, and they are well loved by the congregation. When we re-enter the building for services, the children will continue to be invited to serve as acolytes and readers. Other things we look forward to when we can gather in person is the always fun Vacation Bible School, Family Camp, and Game Nights.
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Confirmation for Youths
The sacramental rite of Confirmation is available to all who are “of an age” for deliberate and deep commitment to serving Christ and his Church. Usually, youth who are 13 and over are invited to consider confirmation. The preparation for confirmation entails a series of classes over the course of a year, aiming for confirmation when the bishop visits. For the time being in the pandemic, confirmations are on hold till safety is assured.