Update from the Director of Education Ministries -- Amy Grella - 412-801-3723
Fall Sunday Morning Options for Children, Youth and Families
We are thrilled to have our church family back in the building for new in-person options. Our nursery is open for babies and toddlers during worship. During second hour, childcare will be provided in room 110. Please look below for details on the plan by each age group. Complete COVID safety procedures can be found on the church website under the Children & Youth tab. In general, masks are required for everyone 3 years and older who are working with children, and we practice social distancing during seated activities.
Children’s Worship (Preschool - 2nd grade)
Children preschool (potty-trained) up to second grade will start in worship with their families. After the Children’s Sermon, kids will be escorted downstairs to room 103, our Children’s Worship Space. Children will have their very own worship experience using Godly Play, learning Bible stories through seeing, hearing, and hands-on activities. Parents may pick-up their children in the classroom after worship ends.
Tweens (3rd - 5th grade)
The 3rd – 5th graders will meet during worship in our newly refreshed room 105 using the ever-popular Sparkhouse Holy Moly curriculum. This class will still take place during the entirety of worship service, so kids should go directly to room 105 on Sunday morning. Parents may pick-up their children in the classroom after worship ends.
Middle & High School (6th - 12th grade) with parents - New 2nd hour option
Older youth in 6th - 12th grades are invited to remain in worship with their families at 9:30 a.m., and join us for Journey Together, a new second hour option for families to do together with their youth in grades six through twelve, led by Amy Grella. It is a series of planned activities focused on exploring the Bible, the Spirit, being Disciples, our Church, and our World. It is NOT a straight Bible study. Think of it to experience spiritual growth through engaging, fun activities. The class will meet in Fellowship Hall during second hour at 11:00 a.m. Childcare will be available for elementary aged kids downstairs in room 110 during this time.
Youth Group Scoop
New groups for kids and youth from 3rd through 12th grade have formed. There are separate youth group options for the following three age groups: 3rd-5th grades (aka our tweens), middle school, high school. Led by Miss Amy and other volunteers, these groups will meet once a month on Sunday evenings. Weather permitting, all meetings will be held outdoors when we are able, or inside if needed. Because each group is only meeting once a month, it is vital that you make every effort to have your child participate during their appropriate night, so we have enough kids to make it meaningful. Kids are welcome to bring friends or neighbors to join us.
Tweens (3rd- 5th grades) meet the 1st Sunday each month.
October 3rd - 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at the church
November 7th - 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at the church
Middle School (6th- 8th grades) meet the 2nd Sunday each month.
October 10th - 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at the church
November 14th - 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at the church
SAVE THE DATE: Middle School Retreat at Camp Ligonier November 19-21
High School (9th- 12th grades) meet the 3rd Sunday each month.
September 19th - 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at the church
October 17th- 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at the church
SAVE THE DATE: High School Retreat at Crestfield, November 12-14
Combined Youth Group Event at Simmons Farm - October 3rd 1:00 p.m.
Bower Hill Youth Groups (3rd through 12th grades) are invited to enjoy an afternoon at Simmons Farms together. The cost to attend is $12.50 per person; this includes a hayride to the fall fest, most fall fest activities, and one pumpkin to bring home. Snacks will be provided, but bring spending money if you want food from the concessions, market store, or to do apple slinging. RSVP is required so tickets may be purchased in advance. Adult chaperones are needed - please let Amy know if you are interested in helping at this event.
Remembering our Graduates
Below is the contact information for three of our recent graduates who left home in August for college. Whether you or your family can drop a note, share your child’s artwork, or send a package, please keep them in your prayers as they meet new friends, adjust to life away from home and acclimate to their school schedules.
Ellie Rising
Foster Quad, Harper #C825
1000 N. Fee Lane
Bloomington, IN 47406
Madelyn Salvante
953 Danby Rd.
Hool Hall, Room 304
Ithaca, NY 14850
Miles Coleman Child
129 Hemenway St #104
Boston, MA 02115-4102