Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs." —Matthew 19:14 NRSV
Children As Full Participants in Parish Life
At Calvary, we recognize the importance of children's participation in and contributions to the life of the parish. Children are involved in numerous activities and events such as, the Best Ever Halloween Event, All Saints Procession, St. Nicholas Festival, Advent Pageant, Easter Egg Hunt, and Children's Choir.
Children's Ministries Council
Volunteers serve on the Children’s Ministries Council to insure
that growth in the spiritual life of young children is nurtured and
valued. The Council's goal is to assist with the coordination
of children's programs and events, actively seek and call others to
participate in Children's Ministries, evaluate and suggest improvements
for ongoing ministries, and implement strategies to strengthen faith
formation for our children and to support families.
Meetings are scheduled on the first Wednesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. in the Luke Room. Council participants discuss the meeting agenda over dinner. If you have an interest in helping to shape Calvary’s ministry for children, contact Council Chair, Gina Hamblen, or Children's Ministries Coordinator, Judy Nocifora.
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Fifth and sixth graders are growing in maturity, in their ability to incorporate values and principles, and in their involvement in issues of the community. We also recognize the importance of creating opportunities for fellowship outside of Sunday classes for this group since they will move to Rite-13 and through Journey to Adulthood together. GROW (God’s Representatives in Our World) teachers plan a monthly activity where this age group can experience the joy of reaching out to others and gather for fellowship. Children visit retirement residents, make and send cards to soldiers, participate in a fall hay ride and cookout and celebrate Christmas at the home of a parishioner. In May, the group plans a day trip to celebrate an end to this phase of their faith journey.
Children's
Outreach
Each year children eagerly anticipate their Lenten outreach commitment to Heifer Project International. To kickoff the project, a petting zoo comes to Calvary and children get a first hand look at some of the animals that could be purchased and sent to help families all over the world as a result of this offering. As a Lenten practice, children are encouraged to save part of his/her allowance for this offering or to find a special job to do for the family, a neighbor, or a relative to earn money to give. A child's personal involvement in this project is important.
Children's Ministry is always open to suggestions and new ideas. If you have an idea for a children's activity, project, class or opportunity, please contact Judy Nocifora.