Children and Youth
Children are a cherished part of St. Brendan’s, and we encourage our children and youth to be an active part of our community through worship, service, and socializing. On any given Sunday, you’ll see kids participating in Sunday School classes or serving as acolytes or ushers, singing with the choir, helping plant and harvest produce in the Garden of Hope, collecting donations for the food pantry, and participating in numerous other events and projects at St. Brendan’s.
Children's Worship Service
The 10:00 a.m. service on the fourth Sunday of each month takes the form of a children’s liturgy when our young members take the lead by serving as ushers, reading the scripture from the children’s lectionary, leading the prayers of the people, singing with the choir, etc.
A table with appropriate quiet activities for young children is situated in the back of the sanctuary. If your child needs space to move around or some toy/item to engage with during worship, feel free to utilize this space for such times. (For safety reasons, adult supervision is appreciated.) We believe that children still learn and benefit from being in church, even during play.
Sunday School
Sunday School classes for Kindergarten thru Grade 5 meet during the 10:00 a.m. service each Sunday from September to May. Classes do not meet on the fourth Sunday of the month, which is generally the day for the Children’s Worship Service. We have two Sunday School classes based on age groups: the Lambs (K-Gr. 2) and Fish (Gr. 3-5).
Children begin the service in the sanctuary with their families during the opening hymn, after which they are invited to Sunday School with a prayer. They return to the service for Eucharist with their families. Sunday School provides an opportunity for children to get to know God and the Church in a format and setting where they can engage, participate, question, discuss, and be kids!
We use the Whirl digital curriculum, published by Sparkhouse, in our Sunday School program. Lessons follow the Revised Common Lectionary and contain Bible stories and readings with activities designed to engage children in learning about and practicing their faith. You can read more about the program here.
St. Brendan’s Sunday School teachers and other volunteers are required to have up-to-date state and federal clearances and training through the Episcopal Church’s “Safe Church, Safe Communities” program.
Youth Group (6th - 12th Grade)
The youth group meets on the third Sunday of each month following the 10:00 a.m. service. Through youth group, St. Brendan's youth are encouraged to deepen their relationships with Jesus through the study of scripture, through discussions of modern life lived with faith, and by exploring one’s call to service. Meetings include a fun activity, biblical readings, and discussion on a theme. All youth from 6th grade through 12th grade are invited to join our youth group to put our faith into action.
Nursery
Childcare for infants through preschool is available during the 10:00 a.m. Sunday service in the Nursery. Our nursery is run by a paid director and staffed with additional volunteers. Two adults (or one adult and one teen) provide a fun, caring environment for the children in a warm and inviting nursery room.
Children & Youth Calendar
