“Expect divinity to appear and reappear as a child. Expect it in yourselves.” Matthew Fox
United Church seeks to provide a safe, loving and accepting place for all children to grow in their understanding of God, by providing meaningful activities in Bible learning, music, fellowship and service.
We are excited to have your children join us in all our worship services. There will be monthly experiences for young people which will run concurrently with worship.
8th and 9th Graders (Seekers’/Confirmation Class)
UCF provides a Seekers’/Confirmation class for late middle school, early high school students. Led by the Pastor, volunteers and educators, young people spend the year exploring their faith at the next developmental level.
They will:
- visit worshipping communities of other faith traditions;
- learn about our relationship with the American Baptist Churches, USA, and the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the history of our congregation, the development of scripture, prayer, mission, service, and stewardship, through activity and discussion;
- enjoy fellowship;
- share in service to the community;
- and develop a personal expression of their faith at that moment, choosing their preferred media (photography, essay, music, art).
For those students who choose, this yearlong experience constitutes their preparation for full membership in the church. Board members hear about their experiences from them and receive them into membership. The congregation welcomes them in public worship at a confirmation service scheduled in the spring.
Youth Ministries (Grades 6-12)
“Our children are our most important guests, who enter into our home, ask for careful attention, stay for a while and then leave and go their own way.” Henri Nouwen
Young people are encouraged to participate in all worship services and intergenerational activities. We also partner with the Manlius United Methodist Church for its monthly “First Friday” gatherings. Students gather for fellowship, fun and spiritual growth at least once a month. All youth from 6th-12th grades are welcome. Dates are listed in the calendar and weekly emails and on the Education bulletin board.
Mission/Outreach for K-12
Our children and youth participate in intergenerational mission projects throughout the year.
