Family & Children’s Ministry

10-10:50 AM – Sundays during the school year

Sunday School is offered for children ages 4 to 6th grade most Sundays throughout the school year from 10-10:50 AM in the classrooms. Teachers provide a positive atmosphere where learning about Jesus is FUN!

Classrooms:

Pre-K & Kindergarten (Room C-1)

1st-3rd Grade (Room B-4)

4th-6th Grade (Room C-4)

Children’s Chapel is held year-round at both the 9 AM and 11 AM services. Children begin the service with their families and, after the Gospel reading, are escorted to the SMEC Chapel for an age-appropriate lesson and prayer. Children rejoin their families at the Peace. ​Lessons are geared to ages PreK-2nd grade, but all elementary aged children and parents are welcome.

Saint Matthew’s offers a safe, bright environment with warm and caring staff and volunteers who provide quality childcare while parents attend worship services. The nursery is available Sunday mornings from 8:45 AM –12:10 PM in Room C-2 for children, ages newborn to four.

We’re proud to a Lending Library for Children in our Room C-1 classroom. We have a great collection of books about God, Jesus, the Bible, the Saints, positive values and God’s creation. We also have many other popular titles. Children can select up to three books and check them out for up to one month. The Lending Library is available during regular office hours (stop by the office and someone will let you in) and Sunday mornings. Donations are gladly accepted.

Each summer, Saint Matthew's hosts a fun and engaging week- long Vacation Bible School. Children, ages PreK through entering 6th grade, find fun and friendship at this half-day camp, while learning about God's love through games, crafts, skits, songs and snacks. Children also enjoy a day of play outside with a giant inflatable waterslide.

Communion classes are offered to children and parents who wish to have a deeper understanding of the Eucharist. These classes are optional, and are open to children whether or not they have taken communion in the past. The curriculum is geared to children ages 7-10, but is open to all elementary aged children (1st grade and up).

The Episcopal Church does not have a ceremony for a first communion, as children are able to receive communion once baptized. Should you wish to celebrate your child’s first communion, you are welcome to take photos after the service.

Classes meet on four Sundays in the fall. Online registration is required and class size is limited.

Youth Ringers is an exciting musical ensemble held during the spring for children and youth grades 3rd through 8th! Ringers have the opportunity to experience this fun, team-oriented musical tradition, play at Saint Matthew's church services and learn note and rhythm-reading. They practice twice a month, at 11:00 AM, in our Parish Hall.

Our music director, Mrs. Rachel, leads our youth choir in the fall, teaching vocal technique and inspiring children grades 1st-8th through song. Age- appropriate songs of praise are practiced together along with music reading. Singers will share their music with the congregation during the 9:00 and 11:00 services on selected Sundays in the fall.

Each year, our children take center stage to beautifully retell the Nativity story during our 9:00 and 11:00 AM services. Their passion and dedication shine through as they bring to life the birth of Christ with joy and enthusiasm.

This beloved script, crafted by Harlie Youngblood, draws from The Holy Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ according to Matthew and Luke, making it a truly meaningful experience for our community. For over 20 years, this cherished pageant has been a highlight of our Advent celebrations, inspiring the congregation and reminding us all of the true spirit of Christmas.

Mark your calendars for this year’s performance on December 15, 2024! Don’t forget, online registration is required to ensure every child has a chance to shine on stage. We can't wait to share this special moment with you and celebrate the joy of the season together!