Heard AND Seen!

Once upon a time in the church, children were to be ‘seen and not heard’. As we have grown in our faith and understanding of the gifts that God has given us, we have come to understand that children’s voices are one of those gifts; we must listen if we are to fully experience all of God’s creation.

At St. Barnabas, we encourage children in their faith journey starting at a very young age and the journey continues throughout their grade school and high school years. All of this time in their church family provides a solid base for young people as they head into the world as young adults. They go into society knowing that they are valued, loved and that they are a part of a community of faith. Below is our approach to children & youth formation from 0-18.

For information about our Children's program through 6th & 7th grade, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , Director of Children's Ministries.

For information about our Youth program, from 5th -12th grade, contact Kate Fimbres, Director of Youth Ministries.

Nursery Care
Ages 0-2

Staffed by licensed and experienced day care providers from 8:30 am to noon each Sunday, and during special church-sponsored events by request. Children learn about being at church simply by being in a loving environment a little different than home, a little different than daycare, but with all the same love & care that helps them know they are safe and valued.

Toddler Class
Ages 2-4

A gentle approach to Christian Formation through storytelling and hands-on learning. Children learn about God's love for them in an affirming and fun-loving environment. This group combines lots of activities with the learning, focusing on the simplest ways to help our children embrace God's love.

Godly Play
Ages 5-9

Bible stories that encourage children to enter into the stories and relate them to their personal experience. It is a hands-on method of learning that involves all the senses and allows children to experience the story on multiple levels. The cornerstone of the curriculum is to allow children to actively WONDER about God and the stories about God. "I wonder what kind of shoes Moses was wearing when he walked across the Red Sea on dry land?" "I wonder if Jesus had a pet?" There are no wrong wonderings--and no wrong ways to love God when you're a child.

Seasons of the Spirit
Ages 10-12

At this age, kids are wrestling with what faith can mean in their worlds. Seasons of the Spirit is an inclusive Lectionary-based program (meaning it uses the same lessons the adults are hearing in 'big' church) integrating the learning, worship and serving ministries of the church that allows older children to explore their faith in a friendly, supportive environment.  

Confirmation
Ages 13-15

The only two-year Episcopal confirmation program in the state. Making an adult commitment to the Church is a big step and is surrounded by community-building, education, service projects, and fun. The rector (head pastor) of St. Barnabas visits with the class monthly for bible study, reflection and fun and adult lay volunteers walk with our youth for the entire journey so the young people feel supported and have lots of ways to ask questions, learn and grow.

Youth Group
Ages 16-18

During these years, a Christian community can be vital for kids who are struggling to know themselves and God. The St. Barnabas youth group is a safe place to continue their young adult journey of faith through bible study, mission projects and sharing. This often leads to a vital faith life when they head to college or out into the working world, so it's foundational to our life together!

Children with Special Needs
All Ages

Our church staff joyfully welcomes children with special needs. Working closely with parents, we help develop a plan for ALL children to grow in their faith and relationship with Jesus. All God's children are a blessing to us and we look forward to welcoming your family into the St. Barnabas family! Contact Kate or Mary Eileen to learn more.