The ministry of Christian Education at Christ Church is ongoing from the earliest years through our senior years. We minister to each other as our lives are transformed by our faith, and we grow together as members of the one Body of Christ. Our classes and other educational offerings aim to hold up our uniqueness and our unity as each of us grows and learns. For our children and youth this means hands-on learning and joyful noise and activity.
For adults we provide varied opportunities to listen and learn and to discuss and share our faith development.
Young and old alike, we strive to carry the results of that faith into the world. Parents are always invited to visit, and help, with their children's classes. As a parish family, we learn with and from one another.
Children's Programs
Sunday School registration, click here.
Guild of the Christ Child
Families with new babies are ministered to by this caring group. The group will follow the parents through the pregnancy and provide literature and support to the family. They make visits and take much needed items and food to the new parents.
Children's Sunday School Classes
Classes for children and youth meet from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. on the second floor of the Parish Hall and Old Rectory from September through May. A registration form for Sunday School is available here.
Our Nursery
Open from 9:15 through the 10:30 service, our nursery is staffed by a paid attendant and parent volunteers and located on the 2nd floor of the Parish Hall. It remains open during the summer.
Children's Chapel
Children aged 3 to 7 are invited to participate in this 10:30 service in the children's chapel. Adapted from the order for Morning Prayer, this service contains age-appropriate lessons, activities, and music. On communion Sundays children are brought to the sanctuary to join their parents at the Passing of the Peace. On Sundays when the 10:30 worship service is Morning Prayer, the children remain in the Chapel until met by their parents. Children's Chapel is led by parent volunteers with assistance from parish youth.
Children ages 2 and 3
The biblical story presentation, games, rhymes, music, and activities all recognize the needs and learning styles of our youngest Sunday School members. Stories explored are from the Old Testament and the life and teachings of Jesus. We use the Let the Children Come curriculum produced by Living the Good News.
Children Age 4 Through Grade 5
Providing Bible-based, experiential learning opportunities for a variety of learning levels and styles, this spiral curriculum is organized into a three-year cycle. In addition one quarter of each year includes a study of one of the sacraments and another of the Episcopal Church. Supplemental materials and music are closely aligned with each lesson, all from the Episcopal Children's Curriculum.
Journey to Adulthood - 6th-12th Grades
Children's Music Program
The musical opportunities for young people at Christ Church are varied and help our children worship God through music. Our youngest members have the opportunity to sing in the cherub choir and the younger Sunday school students begin each class with piano music and song. Older students may choose to join the Alleluia Singers or Cantamus. On special Sundays, the children lift their voices in song at the 10:30 service.
Adult Education Offerings
Adult Forum
Adults gather Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. in the Tilford Room/Parish Hall to examine issues of faith and life. Coffee and conversation make the hour a great time for getting to know one another and learning about matters of particular importance to Christians.
Wednesday Bible Study
Each Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in the Smith Building Conference Room, clergy lead a discussion based on the biblical lessons for the upcoming Sunday. Commentaries as well as various translations of scripture make this a lively weekly gathering.
Men's Group
Second Thursday of each month 7 p.m. a group of parishioners gathers in the Parish Hall, Tilford Room for fellowship and discussion. All men are welcome.
Women's Bible Study
Tuesday Mornings at 10:30 am and Wednesday evenings at 7pm. opportunities abound for women to explore the Bible, learn how the Holy Spirit speaks through scripture to women today and make new friends to walk with you on our earthly journey. Women of all ages are welcome. The same topic is covered in the morning and evening session. For more information contact rector@christchurchwinchester.org
Women's Spirituality and Group Spiritual Direction
Second Tuesday of each month at 4:00 pm in the Parlors. Meet with other women to discern where God is working in your life as well as group Spiritual Direction are available. New members are always welcome. Topics such as prayer, meditation, family life, spiritual practices and expressions of spirituality are just some of topics for discussion. Be prepared to make new friends, share your journey and go deeper in your faith walk. For more information contact rector@christchurchwinchester.org