Children’s and Youth Ministries
Children’s and Family Ministry
Family is at the heart of Orleans United Church (OUC). Caring for and developing meaningful Christian relationships with people of all ages is our focus. All are welcome during worship services, from infants to seniors. We encourage intergenerational experiences so that we might have a true faith family.
There is a dedicated time for conversation between children and the worship leaders during the first part of Sunday morning worship. This is an important and insightful part of worship during which we are all together – learning and sharing as one big family.
There is Nursery Care and Sunday School available for children after their time in the Sanctuary with the worship leaders. Some children choose to remain with their adults in the Sanctuary for the remainder of worship services – activity packages are available for them on request.
Nursery care is available for infants and preschool-aged children. The Nursery is supervised by paid, trained teenagers.
Sunday School classes are provided by volunteer teachers who follow a prescribed curriculum. Classes are divided by age groups to meet the specific skills and needs of the children:
- Junior and Senior Kindergarten;
- Grades 1 and 2; and
- Grades 3 through 6.
The Sunday School classes explore various scripture stories and faith concepts using crafts, games and discussion in age-appropriate ways.
In the summertime and on some holidays, we offer either a “one-room” Sunday school where all children gather together for a larger, all-ages activity, or provide other self-directed options that children can engage in while remaining in the Sanctuary with the adults.
Throughout the year there are opportunities for special family activities at OUC as well. This may take the form of outings or activities at the church, holiday-themed parties or special worship services. Many families find that staying after worship for our Fellowship Time is also a way to connect with other families who have children and meet new friends.
For further information, please contact the church office.
Youth Ministry
Youth (grades 6 to 12) are a vital and valued part of the Church family at OUC. Due to their maturity, they have the opportunity take on different roles within the congregation such as volunteering in Sunday School, helping out with fundraising events, participating in worship services, assisting with the delivery of audio-visual services during worship services, or working in paid roles.
There are Youth Group events throughout the year which provide our youth the chance to get together, have fun and build their own community. Youth in grades 6 to 12 are welcome to attend and to bring their friends. These events are held at least monthly and are run by enthusiastic leaders and overseen by Rev. Molly Bell.
Youth who are interested in learning more about their faith and who wish to explore and deepen their relationship with the church – possibly becoming official members of the United Church – are invited to discuss an interest in Youth Confirmation with Rev. Molly.
For more information about any of our youth programming, please contact the church office.