Religious Education

For Children

The church utilizes the "Whole People of God," a lectionary-based curriculum that seeks to lay out the Biblical story and the example of Jesus alongside the concerns and life choices we face each day. Teams of teachers that meet for training five times a year provide weekly classes for children in grades pre-kindergarten through eighth.

Download the religious education registration form for the 2010/2011 school year.

Following the ecumenical lectionary (shared by Congregational, Baptist, Episcopal, Catholic, Lutheran, Presbyterian, and Methodist churches) allows the children to study the same themes that adults are hearing in worship. This creates a shared learning environment in the congregation and its families.

For parents whose children become anxious during the worship service, a closed circuit broadcast of the worship service, comfortable chairs, and children's toys are available in the Randall Parlor/Library off Davis Hall.

For Young People

Twice each month the Junior High Youth Group and the Senior High Youth Group meet to discuss topics of interest to teenagers and, of course, to have fun. Discussions have touched on substance abuse issues, preparing for college, and alternative religious perspectives. Activities have included progressive dinners, white-water rafting trips, a ski trip, and a visit to Plimouth Plantation. The Junior High Youth Group participates in walkathons and often prepares meals for the James II Kitchen.

Confirmation

Every other year, high school age students are invited to participate in an intense program enabling them to affirm the promises made for them at their baptism. The program includes classes focusing on major world religions, field trips to a variety of churches and worship centers, and developing a mentor relationship with an older member of the congregation. The program culminates in a worship service designed by the students, who also share their own personal statements of faith.

Adults

Special adult education programs are offered on an ongoing basis. These have included presentations by enaging speakers such as Edie Clark, senior writer of YANKEE Magazine, Annette Rafferty, the founder of Abby's House, a shelter for abused women and their children in Worcester, and Roman Catholic commentator Thomas T. Howard. Study groups have met to dicuss THE CLOISTER WALK by Kathleen Norris, and THE GOOD BOOK by Peter Gomes. Adults have also enjoyed a "Mystery Church Tour."

Library and Bookmobile

The church maintains a wide-ranging library in the Randall Parlor, off of Davis Hall. On the first Sunday of each month, the bookmobile makes an appearance at coffee hour to share recent acquisitions with the congregation.