Children and Youth
First Congregational joyously strives to educate, guide and nurture children so they can and will grow in their faith.
Sunday School
On Sunday mornings, our worship service begins at 10:00 am with all ages in the Sanctuary. Our Children’s Sermon takes place early in worship. Children (toddlers-Grade 6) will make their way to classrooms for Sunday School while parents and older youth remain in the Sanctuary for worship.
Nursey Classroom
Our Nursery classroom opens at 9:45 am every Sunday. Parents can drop off little ones before worship or after the Children’s Sermon. Parents are welcome to stay in the nursery to assure their little ones are comfortable and adjusting. The entire worship service can be heard from speakers in the nursery. You may also return to the Sanctuary and check on your little ones at any time during worship. The nursery classroom is very accessible and in close proximity to the Sanctuary.
Kindergarten-6th Grades
Kindergarten through 2nd Graders come together to learn from Bible stories. Using age-appropriate Bibles, interactive group games and hands-on activities, children grow in their learning and understanding of God’s love for them. Our 3rd through 6th grade classroom intentionally helps kids familiarize their way through the Bible, to build up their discipleship.
7th-12th Grades
Youngsters in 7th through 12th grade participate in worship. They are regularly part of the Sunday Worship Experience by helping with hospitality, ushering, scripture reading and singing in the choir. It is our goal to include our Youth in worship, guiding and nurturing them to embrace the blessings of Church involvement as they mature into adulthood.
Confirmation
Youth can begin our Confirmation Program as young as 7th grade. Our two-year Program includes classroom instruction, outings, and service opportunities. Youth expand their horizons by worshiping with communities from different cultures and faith traditions. Together we grow our hearts by serving communities in need. Confirmation class begins in the fall. The confirmation program combines both 1st and 2nd year students, working together as a team. Each Confirmand selects a Mentor from the Congregation for guidance and support.
Each youth and one parent will be required to attend an orientation meeting to become familiar with the program requirements and schedule. The Confirmands will determine, by vote, the time of class: before or after Worship. Outings and service projects are included in the program.
“O give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, make known his deeds among the peoples. Sing to him, sing praises to him, tell of all his wonderful works. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice”.
1 Chronicles 16: 8-10
Youth Fellowship
Both our Middle and High School students meet regularly to carry out service projects, enjoy social outings, and participate in fundraisers for their upcoming mission work trips. Our facilities have a beautiful youth room and youth are always encouraged to bring their friends!
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”
Matthew 18: 20
Youth Mission Work Trips
Mission work is at the heart of Youth Ministries at First Congregational United Church of Christ. We believe that when youth step into service, their faith deepens in powerful ways. By working alongside peers, adults from our congregation, and members of the communities they serve, young people experience what it means to live out their faith as part of the Body of Christ. These hands-on opportunities are often transformative, planting seeds of compassion, purpose, and spiritual growth that last a lifetime.
Our week-long mission trip is for youth in grades 7-12. Every other year, we serve a long-distance venue on the Island of Puerto Rico. Throughout the year our youth and parents raise funds to support these mission work trips through events such as a Car Wash, Tostada Sunday, Chili Cook-off and more.
Martha Mendoza
Associate Pastor
Minister of Christian Education
mINISTRIES@elmhurstucc.org
“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”
Hebrew 13: 16