Education
When we say in our mission statement that we wish “to love and serve the Lord,” we commit ourselves to the kind of challenging, ongoing study that stimulates our minds and hearts and helps us grow in the knowledge and love of God. Sound Christian education is thus essential to living out our mission. At St. George’s, education takes many forms. At the heart of it is Sunday morning, when the parish offers a graded church school for children and youth and a forum for adults.
Sundays — September through May
9:00 am Children’s Church School (pre-K to high school) in the chapel
- pre-K to 6th grade: Episcopal Church curriculum
- 7th and 8th grade: Living the Good News curriculum. Confirmation is usually available to junior high and older. See the rector for more information about confirmation preparation.
- high school: Attitude series from Living the Good News curriculum
The curriculum is rooted in scripture, weaving biblical stories and teachings through lessons so children gain essential biblical literacy. It is rich in tradition as well, incorporating material from The Book of Common Prayer and The Hymnal 1982, so that children learn about liturgy and music along with the proper responses used during worship.
All classes begin at 9 a.m each Sunday with a gathering in the Chapel. Childcare is available for children up to 6 years of age.
Children’s Chapel is offered for elementary and pre-school children during the reading of the Gospel. Various methods, including storytelling, are used to speak the Word to the children in their own language.
Activities
Episcopal Youth Community
We have an active EYC (Episcopal Youth Community) that is divided into Junior High and a High School groups. They meet several times a month for fellowship, outreach, and service opportunities. Tuesday Night Teens, initiated by St. George’s Senior EYC, is an ecumenical outreach and fellowship group that meets weekly. See Steve and Dana Meyer or Brian Maves for more information.
New Beginnings
New Beginnings is a unique weekend experience designed to acknowledge issues, concerns and needs of youth in grades 7-9. The weekend format gives the participants a chance to learn more about themselves, share with others and grow in their relationship with Christ. The weekend includes a series of talks by youth and adults, skits and small group discussions. There is also plenty of time for fun, games, laughing, creating, sharing and making new friends. More information: Bob and Sue Vaughn, 624-1909 (bobsuevon@charter.net)
Happening (Weekend event)
St. George’s young people have been involved in Happening, a vital renewal ministry for high school youth, since its beginnings in the Diocese of Springfield. Happening weekends occur twice each year, providing a profound experience of unconditional love, Christian community and spiritual formation for all who take part. The youth plan, organize and direct the weekends, with help from adult sponsors. Happeners themselves provide the most compelling testimony about the meaning of this experience, but parents are fervent believers as well. More information: Joe Hooten, 235-7290 (jhoo10@aol.com).
