CHILDREN & YOUTH AT THE UNITED CHURCH OF ROWAYTON
Children aren’t just the future of our church—they are a vital part of it today. They contribute by reading in church services, participating in community service projects, or acting in our Living Nativity.
They remind us that God is present in the “messy-ness” of life and give living proof that we are a family of faith.
Our Toddler and Infant Care Room (For our restless littlest ones)
Our nursery is a warm, safe environment staffed by Sam Buisson, a trained elementary school teacher. Parents are welcome to stay or drop off; the room features a live audio feed, so you won’t miss a moment of the service.
Sunday School (Grades 4-6)
Children begin the morning with their families in the sanctuary to experience the community of worship. After the second hymn, they walk with Val Harden, Director of Youth Education to Sunday school, for hands-on lessons based on the day’s scripture.
We bridge the gap between church and home, giving families a shared language for faith.
The Anchors (Grades 7-8)
A twice-a-month evening program focused on fellowship, games, and “the basics” of Christianity and spirituality, Anchors is open to all. No family church membership required.
Anchors builds empathy and leadership through discussion, community service projects, and activities.
The program is led by Val and members of the Board of Christian Education. It has a 1:10 teacher-student ratio.
Students move from The Anchors to Confirmation classes.
The experiences of being in confirmation class and being in Anchors have really opened my eyes to the importance God has in my life and how much more I am still wanting to lear.n. T.D.
Confirmation Classes (Grades 9 & 10)
Confirmation is a two-year journey where teens explore faith, ask hard questions, and choose what church membership means to them.
Meeting twice a month on Wednesday nights, students dive deeper using Pastor Sal’s book, “Childish Thinking.”
In the first year, the focus is on the Old Testament, which gives us the roots for Christianity. Students come to appreciate the Bible’s rich symbolism and metaphors.
The New Testament is used in the second year, and discussion focuses on how to be a relevant Christian.
Teachers Val and Pastor Sal introduce students to the church. They learn about the structure of a worship service, how a church works, and what it means to be a member.
At the end of the Confirmation program, the confirmands are welcomed into the church as members.
