The carved wooden sign by the Sanctuary steps announces that Epworth is a place where children are special. The goal of our programs for children and youth is not only to educate, but to affirm their role in God's world and in our congregation. Adults will find meaningful Christian education for every stage and phase of life.

GODLY PLAY (Grades K-2) Godly Play is a Montessori-inspired method for Christian education through story-telling, exploration, and discovery. Children and the storyteller wonder together about stories of our faith, told with simple props. The children then choose art supplies and create whatever they choose, in response to what they feel is most important in the story. Parents can participate as greeters, storytellers, and helpers in a classroom specially equipped for exploring spiritual themes.

SUNDAY SCHOOL (Grades 3-5) Using "Seasons of the Spirit" children explore belonging to a group that loves and cares, celebrate the gift of forgiveness, work together cooperatively, discover what it means to live like Jesus and learn about communicating with God through prayer. Children receive their own "working" Bible, learn how to look up scripture (and how the Bible is put together), share feelings and experiences, keep journals, do arts and crafts, sing, and play a variety of games. The class parallels the ecumenical calendar presenting the scriptures that are used during worship.

MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL (Grades 6-8 and 9-12) Youth Leader Lisa WilliamsCraig organizes the Sunday-morning Middle- and High-School programs as well as monthly events throughout the year. Weekend activities include scavenger hunts, service projects, theme-party overnights at the church, and trips to destinations like Lake Tahoe and Disneyland. The Annual Conference Youth Event and Epworth's Youth Sunday provide opportunities for young people to share creativity, inspiration, and energy with the congregation and the church at large.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS Confirmation class for Middle School students starts in February and concludes with the Bishop's Confirmation Retreat in April. The Love, Peace, and Joy Children's Choir forms every fall and provides special music for worship and holiday programs.

EPWORTH PLAYGROUPS The Epworth Playgroups provide a quality play experience for young children and their parents in a relaxed social environment. Our playroom is bright and sunny, with many areas for creative play. The presence of each child's parent allows the children to explore, knowing that Mom or Dad are nearby. Sessions end with a group singing circle. The program is open to the community and is not religious in nature. Each family signs up for one two-hour session per week (9:30-11:30 AM, Monday through Friday). Enrollment is limited to 14 children per day. We keep fees low so that all members of the community have an opportunity to participate. New programs start fall, winter, and spring quarters. Please contact Susan Jardin for more information. Please download brochure/application