Children, Youth, and Family Ministry

• Nursery Care
• Sunday School
• Youth Ministry and Youth Groups

St John's is committed to the spiritual development of people of all ages, and we know from experience that adults and children all benefit from participating together in a common life of worship and formation in community. To that end, we offer programs that are designed to meet the spiritual needs of children, youth, adults, parents, and various combinations of all four. Click the links above for information about education and community offerings for children and youth, and scroll down for the latest about new and ongoing programs and events for families of all kinds.

A NOTE ABOUT SAFETY: The safety of children at St. John's is paramount to us. Therefore all clergy, staff, and volunteers who work with children and youth at St. John's have participated in the training program Called to Right Relationship, which sets standards of behavior pertaining to the physical and emotional safety of children and youth.

Spring and Summer 2010

CHILDREN’S CHOIR AT EASTER (AND BEYOND!)
As of this Easter, the children’s choir ain’t just for Christmas anymore! We are building a regular program of church music for children. Contact Lenore Alford if you’re interested in being part of this! (lenore@stjohnsross.org) To find out more about the program, visit our music page here.

CREATION IN COMMUNITY: Vacation Bible School
August 9 through 12.
A fun program designed around the Creation story, including: arts, crafts and lots of play. This is an opportunity for the entire community to be involved in one upcoming event. We will need adult facilitators of work stations, snack and just as extra hands and eyes. The youth will function as group leaders as well as facilitate certain aspects of the story and arts projects. Younger children ages 4 through rising 6th graders are invited to participate. Contact Cait Black (cait@stjohnsross.org)

TELLING OUR STORIES
Parish Weekend Away
August 27-29 at the Bishop’s Ranch in Healdsburg.
Come for a weekend of fellowship, fun, and nourishment for your soul. The Bishop’s Ranch is located in the middle of wine country, surrounded by vineyards, and including trails for hiking and mountain biking. The time we spend together includes worship, play, work on our souls, and just plain hanging out. To find our more about it, and to reserve a spot for your or your family, please contact the Parish Office (456-1102).

Ongoing Family Ministry Programs

THE F WORD: Spirituality in the Family
This group of parents and spiritual seekers meets the second Tuesday of every month. Sharing experiences from our lives, drawing on our collective wisdom, and reflecting on a common resource (we are currently reading Wendy Wright’s book Seasons of a Family’s Life: Cultivating Contemplative Spirituality at Home), we support one another in the astonishing, transformative and very holy work of raising children. Individually, we are: single parents, new parents, empty-nesters, moms and dads (and also children of our own parents, too!). Collectively we represent the family of St John’s. Join us! Contact Steve for more info: (steve@stjohnsross.org)

INTERGENERATIONAL WORSHIP
Every Sunday at 9am
This weekly gathering is designed especially for families with young children, though we have found that it works for anyone who likes to be part of the action! Together we participate in making music, telling stories, sharing prayers, and building community by breaking bread together. All ages are welcome — adults and children will find meaning and value in participating in worship together.

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