Children & Youth - Central Congregational Church of Newburyport

Children & Youth

Wondering together is a community’s way of remaining open to the Holy Spirit, shaping and deepening our knowledge of God

This time spent wondering together produces thinking Christians who can enter into dialogue, share their experiences of God, and together discover God’s calling for them. Come wonder with us!

Nursery care

Infants & Preschoolers

Nursery Care is offered at most church services, and the nursery which is stocked with age appropriate toys and books is located at the main entrance. There is also a quiet corner in the back of the church with a rocking chair, books, weekly children’s bulletins and crayons.

sunday school

Godly play: ages 5-12

grapple: grades 6-12

GODLY PLAY

GRAPPLE

Sunday School is offered most Sundays during the school year. In 2022, we are launching a new program called Godly Play for our younger children. Godly Play is a story-based curriculum that uses the educational techniques of a Montessori classroom. Each week, one teacher tells a story based on the Bible and church tradition using simple materials. A second adult welcomes the children into the classroom and assists them as they respond to the story with art supplies and crafts. The lessons ends with a simple snack, called a feast, as the children celebrate the community they are building among themselves.

Youth Group

grades 5-12

Youth Group is a place for Middle School and High School teens to gather for fun, fellowship, faith formation and service. The group meets periodically throughout the year, usually on a Sunday evening. Some of the group’s recent activities have included sharing stories and games around a backyard fire pit, nature walks, food preparation for the Saturday Evening Meal program, and painting rainbow stripes on the crosswalk nearest the church.

communion class

third grade +

Communion Class is a special opportunity for students in Third Grade and older (and their parents) to learn about the meaning and practice of this sacrament. Participation in this class is not a pre-requisite to receive communion. Our communion table is open to all who wish to know Jesus because we believe that Jesus invited all people to share at a common table. Anyone of any age is welcome to receive communion. For children, this decision usually involves a conversation with parents.

The Communion Class explores the meaning of sacraments as a gift from God, the parallels between communion and the Passover meal, the Bible story of the Last Supper, and the promise that Jesus is with us when we share this simple meal. We also learn how the Deacons prepare communion each week and bake bread that will be served to the congregation. Lastly, we climb the steeple together and sign our names on the walls that surround our historic clock mechanism.

Confirmation

high school

Confirmation is offered to young people in high school. This year-long class provides an opportunity for a young person to learn more about Christian beliefs and practices. Confirmation is linked to the sacrament of baptism that is typically offered to newborns. In confirmation, young people have the opportunity to make a personal commitment, confirming the promises made on their behalf at baptism. Each student, called confirmands, works with a mentor in the congregation. Activities include Bible study; discussions about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit; presentations of people whose faith inspired them to make the world a better place; and community service projects.

Learn More About Children & Youth Activities

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What’s Coming up?

20th Annual Newburyport Chocolate Tour October 7

Tickets on Sale Now 20th Annual Newburyport Chocolate Tour Organized By Central Congregational Church, United Church of Christ Dear Website, For those of