Children and Youth at St. Patrick's
FUN. FELLOWSHIP. FAITH.
Jesus tells us to let little children come to him, and we take that instruction seriously at St. Patrick’s. Children are always welcome at our regular church services! We also offer several opportunities for children and youth to be part of our church community and to connect to their faith in their own way.
Child Care
Children 2 1/2 thru K: Childcare for toddlers is available the second and fourth Sundays in the Toddler Room across from the Godly Play (Sunday School) classroom. The Toddler Room is in the Education Wing of the Church Building (the Eastern section of the Church). For all other Sundays, there is a Children’s Worship Corner in the Transept (West) Wing of the Sanctuary. There you will find books, blocks and art projects for toddler aged children to be utilized during services.
Godly Play
Children K-5: Children in Preschool (children must be diaper-free) through Fifth Grade. Saint Patrick’s uses the outstanding “Godly Play” Sunday School curriculum. Class meets in the Education Wing of the Church Building (the Eastern section of the Church), and are taught by our Godly Play Director, Ms. Patty Buffaloe, as well as trained parent volunteers, and children usually join the congregation for Communion. Godly Play meets at 9:25 am. Occasionally, on “Family Service Sundays,” Godly Play takes the morning off, the Sunday School students attend church with their families, and the whole congregation is together for the entire service.
Special Programs
Special programs throughout the year for children include a Christmas, Epiphany and St. Patrick’s Patronal Feast Day Pageants, and Easter Egg hunt. All children are welcome, and no sign-up is necessary. Children gather in church at the start of the 9:30 worship service and process to their Sunday school classes.
Youth Programs
Jr. High / Middle Schoolers (grades 6-8): Middle schooler’s currently attend the 9:30 am Holy Eucharist together, and participate in special activities as a group and in conjunction with the Sr. High group. Please contact Fr. George in the Parish Office at (805) 495-6441 ext. 120 for dates and times of various activities.
Sr. High Youth (grades 9-12): High Schooler’s are encouraged to participate in the Altar Party (as Lectors, Intercessors, and Acolytes) on Sunday mornings. We also meet once a quarter for an adventure together out in the world. Stay tuned for information on our next adventure. Contact Fr. George for more information.
FUN, FELLOWSHIP, FAITH IN ACTION
Almighty God, heavenly Father, you have blessed us with the joy and care of children: Give us calm strength and patient wisdom as we bring them up, that we may teach them to love whatever is just and true and good, following the example of our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. – Prayer for the Care of Children, The Book of Common Prayer