Christian Education
At the United Church we consider Christian Education to be a life-long process. Nursery care offers creative and cooperative play.
Our Sunday School Program
Who says "children should be seen and not heard"?
Nobody here! At the United Church of Bernardston (UCB), children are a valued and vital part of
our "church family." We enjoy their energy and participation in worship.
Are children in Sunday School during the entire Service?
At UCB, children join the adults for the first half of worship. There is a Children's Message with the
minister and always lots of good music. Children leave for Sunday School shortly after the offering is
taken. Sunday School lasts until 11:45 a.m. This gives parents a few minutes at coffee hour to relax before
the younger members join them!
What is the structure of Sunday School?
Our Sunday School uses a curriculum called Bible Quest for children in Preschool through Grade 7. It is
a bible story-based curriculum that divides the school year into six 8-week units. Each unit has a particular
focus. Stories are conveyed through music, crafts and discussion. Often, the minister's message ties into what
goes on in the classroom.
How are the classes divided?
The Sunday School is divided into four classrooms:
- Nursery: Age 3* & under
- Beginner: Pre-K — Grade 1
- Primary: Grades 2-4
- Junior: Grades 5-7
*If a 3-year-old isn't ready for the structure of the Beginner class, he or she can spend at least the first half of the year in the Nursery classroom.
Who teaches the classes?
Adult members of the congregation teach the classes with a youth member as an aide. We welcome any member of
the congregation who would like to teach a unit or two, especially those who have children in the Program and
would like to know more about what goes on in class! A sign-up sheet is posted on the Parent Information Board
outside of the classrooms. Training, support and supplies are provided.
How can children participate in worship?
Every Sunday, before classes begin, the children practice a song to perform for the congregation on the last
Sunday of the month. Children Grade 2 and up can serve as Acolytes — lighting the altar candles. There is also
a Recorder Ensemble for older children. Children of all ages are encouraged to participate in special services
for Christmas, Easter and Children's Sunday. The whole church participates in several service projects offering
opportunities for children to be involved and learn how they can make a difference.
Vacation Bible School is offered in the summer.
UCB Youth
Through Youth Group our young people learn Christian values and ways of relating their faith to life.
The Youth Group is for community youth in grades 5-10. These young people meet the first and third Saturdays of the month and participate in fun activities throughout the year. This group helps nurture Christian values and helps young people relate their faith to their daily lives.
Activities include:
- ice skating
- roller skating
- haunted hayride
- softball game
- lock-ins
…and various fundraisers for an annual trip to Camp Mechuwana in Maine. Many of our youth participate in the annual C.R.O.P. Walk.
Ongoing programs of youth ministry and adult education provide opportunities for spiritual formation and growth.
We also offer Adult Bible Studies and Spiritual Formation groups, such as Companions in Christ
Any other questions?
Please contact the Minister or any of the Christian Education Committee members for information.
We hope you'll join us!