Teaching children means... Creating a safe and welcoming place where children are beloved! Nurturing the spirit of wonder within each Child of God! Inviting children into God’s amazing story! UNIVERSITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Church School Teacher’s Handbook 2011—2012 Teaching children means... Creating a safe and welcoming place where children are beloved! Nurturing the spirit of wonder within each Child of God! Inviting children into God’s amazing story! UNIVERSITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Church School Teacher’s Handbook 2011—2012
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Transcript
Teaching children means...
Creating a safe and welcoming place where children are beloved!
Nurturing the spirit of wonder within each Child of God!
Inviting children into God’s amazing story!
U N I V E R S I T Y P R E S B Y T E R I A N C H U R C H
Church School Teacher’s Handbook
2011—2012
Teaching children means...
Creating a safe and welcoming place where children are beloved!
Nurturing the spirit of wonder within each Child of God!
Inviting children into God’s amazing story!
U N I V E R S I T Y P R E S B Y T E R I A N C H U R C H
Church School Teacher’s Handbook
2011—2012
2
U N I V E R S I T Y P R E S B Y T E R I A N C H U R C H
2
U N I V E R S I T Y P R E S B Y T E R I A N C H U R C H
3
University Presbyterian Church
Church School Teacher Handbook
Table of Contents
A Word of Gratitude 4
UPC Church School Greeters 4
2011-2012 Church School Teaching Teams 5
What is Confirmation? 6
Curriculum 7
Supplementary Curriculum Materials 8
Icebreakers and Welcoming Games 8
Teaching Teams & the Church School Calendar 9-11
What if I am sick or have a sick child on Sunday morning? 9
OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION!
Photocopier, Offering, Supply Closets 12
Other Resources, Reimbursements, Snacks, Coffee 13
Goals and Objectives for Children and Youth 14-19
Five Basic Beliefs of the Reformed Tradition 20-23
Map of the Lower Level Building Layout 24
Map of the Upper Level Building Layout 25
Soul Food for the Teaching Spirit 26-27
Should there be an emergency, both of the UPC
Nursery Coordinators are certified in CPR. First
Aid Kits are located .XXXX
3
University Presbyterian Church
Church School Teacher Handbook
Table of Contents
A Word of Gratitude 4
UPC Church School Greeters 4
2011-2012 Church School Teaching Teams 5
What is Confirmation? 6
Curriculum 7
Supplementary Curriculum Materials 8
Icebreakers and Welcoming Games 8
Teaching Teams & the Church School Calendar 9-11
What if I am sick or have a sick child on Sunday morning? 9
OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION!
Photocopier, Offering, Supply Closets 12
Other Resources, Reimbursements, Snacks, Coffee 13
Goals and Objectives for Children and Youth 14-19
Five Basic Beliefs of the Reformed Tradition 20-23
Map of the Lower Level Building Layout 24
Map of the Upper Level Building Layout 25
Soul Food for the Teaching Spirit 26-27
Should there be an emergency, both of the UPC
Nursery Coordinators are certified in CPR. First
Aid Kits are located .XXXX
4
A Word of Gratitude
As teacher of children and youth at University Presbyterian
Church you have joined in the amazing work of ministry within the
church. Your role includes many varied facets. You will be Organizer,
Manager and Coordinator. You will be Negotiator, Communicator and
sometimes Mediator. All of these roles take special skills and gifts when
working with children and youth. But there are other gifts that you pos-
sess that will be even more important than the above. When you are pre-
paring yourself for the time with students, you will be a student yourself
exploring and learning new things from scripture that you never knew.
As you pray for your students and their families, you will be moved by
compassion. And when you enter into the classroom each week, when
you welcome each child, each youth, you are also welcoming the Holy
Spirit.
There will be amazing thing that will happen in your time to-
gether. You will be drawn into the lives of your fellow teachers. You
will be in the presence of young hearts and minds bumping into God with
“oooohs and ahas.” This is what happens when we commit ourselves to
growing children and youth in the faith.
So thank you for your commitment, thank you for your courage,
thank you for your love of God and of God’s children! Welcome to the
2011-2012 Church School year at UPC! God is here!
UPC Church School Greeters
This year we will be focusing more and more on hospitality and the wel-
coming of visitors and guests into the church school program. We have
also reevaluated the role of the Superintendent.
In order to welcome children and their parents, as well as care for the
needs of the teaching teams, we will have two Greeters each Sunday
morning. The Nursery Coordinators, Alana Greene and Kathy
Miller , will serve as the main Greeters, being stationed on the upper and
lower level of the Children’s Education wings. They will help families
find their places as well as help with any miscellaneous needs of teachers.
The Greeters will also collect Offering Envelopes at the end of the educa-
tion hour.
4
A Word of Gratitude
As teacher of children and youth at University Presbyterian
Church you have joined in the amazing work of ministry within the
church. Your role includes many varied facets. You will be Organizer,
Manager and Coordinator. You will be Negotiator, Communicator and
sometimes Mediator. All of these roles take special skills and gifts when
working with children and youth. But there are other gifts that you pos-
sess that will be even more important than the above. When you are pre-
paring yourself for the time with students, you will be a student yourself
exploring and learning new things from scripture that you never knew.
As you pray for your students and their families, you will be moved by
compassion. And when you enter into the classroom each week, when
you welcome each child, each youth, you are also welcoming the Holy
Spirit.
There will be amazing thing that will happen in your time to-
gether. You will be drawn into the lives of your fellow teachers. You
will be in the presence of young hearts and minds bumping into God with
“oooohs and ahas.” This is what happens when we commit ourselves to
growing children and youth in the faith.
So thank you for your commitment, thank you for your courage,
thank you for your love of God and of God’s children! Welcome to the
2011-2012 Church School year at UPC! God is here!
UPC Church School Greeters
This year we will be focusing more and more on hospitality and the wel-
coming of visitors and guests into the church school program. We have
also reevaluated the role of the Superintendent.
In order to welcome children and their parents, as well as care for the
needs of the teaching teams, we will have two Greeters each Sunday
morning. The Nursery Coordinators, Alana Greene and Kathy
Miller , will serve as the main Greeters, being stationed on the upper and
lower level of the Children’s Education wings. They will help families
find their places as well as help with any miscellaneous needs of teachers.
The Greeters will also collect Offering Envelopes at the end of the educa-
tion hour.
5
2011-2012 Church School Teaching Teams
3-4 Year Old Class
Mary & Mark Bozymski
Courtney Edwards
Jeri Oliaro
Marianne & Robert Ratcliffe
Kathy Shaw
Ben Straight
3rd Grade Class
Michelle Abel-Shoup
Harriet Martin
Jen & Scott Singleton
Ashley Wilson
Fran Wilson
Kindergarten Class
Kari Marvin
Bob Mook
Meredith & John McClure Scott
Kristen Stewart
Judy Taft
4-5th Grade Class
Catherine Duncan
Peter Gollmar
Day McLaughlin
Gordon Merklein
Kevin O’Dell
Myrah Scott
1st Grade Class
Jaime Detzi
Margaret Holmes
Charlotte & Kenny Pearce
Virginia Purcell
Karen Vandersea
6-7th Grade Class
Erin Baldwin
Stephan Kennedy
Josh Ladd
Carolyn Schwarz
2nd Grade Class
Amy Ising
Alison Kavanaugh
Bryan Krehnbrink Brian Swafford
Julia Tauras
9-12th Grade Class
Sandy Alexander
Matt Marvin
Kirk Owen
Ted Richardson
John Wilson
Confirmation Class (8th Grade)
Brian Curran
Sharon Edmiston
Betsy Edwards
Jeffery Hart
5
2011-2012 Church School Teaching Teams
3-4 Year Old Class
Mary & Mark Bozymski
Courtney Edwards
Jeri Oliaro
Marianne & Robert Ratcliffe
Kathy Shaw
Ben Straight
3rd Grade Class
Michelle Abel-Shoup
Harriet Martin
Jen & Scott Singleton
Ashley Wilson
Fran Wilson
Kindergarten Class
Kari Marvin
Bob Mook
Meredith & John McClure Scott
Kristen Stewart
Judy Taft
4-5th Grade Class
Catherine Duncan
Peter Gollmar
Day McLaughlin
Gordon Merklein
Kevin O’Dell
Myrah Scott
1st Grade Class
Jaime Detzi
Margaret Holmes
Charlotte & Kenny Pearce
Virginia Purcell
Karen Vandersea
6-7th Grade Class
Erin Baldwin
Stephan Kennedy
Josh Ladd
Carolyn Schwarz
2nd Grade Class
Amy Ising
Alison Kavanaugh
Bryan Krehnbrink Brian Swafford
Julia Tauras
9-12th Grade Class
Sandy Alexander
Matt Marvin
Kirk Owen
Ted Richardson
John Wilson
Confirmation Class (8th Grade)
Brian Curran
Sharon Edmiston
Betsy Edwards
Jeffery Hart
6
What is Confirmation? Confirmation refers to the moment when a person (usually an adolescent) affirms the promises made on her or his behalf by her or his parents and a congregation at the time of
baptism. It is a personal profession of faith in Christ. Confirmation is often tied to the time when a young person becomes a member of the church and is commissioned as a disciple of Jesus Christ. The confirmation class is provided each year to help young peo-ple (confirmands) prepare for the important moment of confir-mation. Being a Christian is not a matter of how much one knows. How-ever, being a faithful member of Christ’s community of faith does involve preparation. It involves understanding something about the Bible and Jesus, about the church, about worship and sacraments, and about service. In our case, it involves under-standing something about being a Presbyterian Christian. We have a confirmation class because we think such preparation is important, just as we believe being a member of the communi-ty of faith is important. At the end of our class, we hope each person will be equipped for responsible membership, including a commitment to: share the good news… pray and study the Bible… take part in the life of the congregation… take part in the sacraments of the church with understanding… serve others as Christ’s follower… work for peace and wholeness in the world… demonstrate a new qual-ity of life with and through the church… live responsibly in per-sonal, family and social relationships… support the work of the church with time, energy, talents and resources.
The Confirmation Class will meet in Room 226 on
Sunday morning, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
6
What is Confirmation? Confirmation refers to the moment when a person (usually an adolescent) affirms the promises made on her or his behalf by her or his parents and a congregation at the time of
baptism. It is a personal profession of faith in Christ. Confirmation is often tied to the time when a young person becomes a member of the church and is commissioned as a disciple of Jesus Christ. The confirmation class is provided each year to help young peo-ple (confirmands) prepare for the important moment of confir-mation. Being a Christian is not a matter of how much one knows. How-ever, being a faithful member of Christ’s community of faith does involve preparation. It involves understanding something about the Bible and Jesus, about the church, about worship and sacraments, and about service. In our case, it involves under-standing something about being a Presbyterian Christian. We have a confirmation class because we think such preparation is important, just as we believe being a member of the communi-ty of faith is important. At the end of our class, we hope each person will be equipped for responsible membership, including a commitment to: share the good news… pray and study the Bible… take part in the life of the congregation… take part in the sacraments of the church with understanding… serve others as Christ’s follower… work for peace and wholeness in the world… demonstrate a new qual-ity of life with and through the church… live responsibly in per-sonal, family and social relationships… support the work of the church with time, energy, talents and resources.
The Confirmation Class will meet in Room 226 on
Sunday morning, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
7
CURRICULUM
Preschool—Middle School
Rock Solid: Building A Heart of Faith "Everyone then who hears these words of mine and acts on them
will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain
fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house,
but it did not fall, because it had been founded on rock."
(Matthew 7:24–25 NRSV)
Research shows that a child’s faith is developed through interacting with adults of
faith (UMPH, 2009). Rock Solid lessons offer resources to help teachers provide
three important experiences for their students:
• A personal connection to God as faithful disciples of Christ
• Friendships among children
• Bonds between parents, leaders, and children
The Rock Solid curriculum covers core biblical stories over a three-year cycle,
and it fits stories into the church year calendar. The curriculum presents more
stories for the year than there are Church School sessions. Accordingly, teachers
are asked to plan how to either combine or eliminate stories within the curricu-
lum while staying within the Church calendar and curriculum goals for the given
age-group.
Senior High Youth Youth Feast: Feasting on the Word (9th-12th Grades)
Youth are figuring out who they are as they search for whose they are. Feasting on the Word materials provide opportunities for this age group to explore their personal and communal identity in Jesus Christ through meaningful community-building experiences, engaging Bible study, and relevant learning activities. Biblical stories will come alive in new and creative ways. In response to God's amazing, uncondi-tional love, youth will be challenged to put their faith into action as they grow to understand themselves as Christ's disciples. Each session includes a media connection section that ties the week's Scripture passage to a film, video, song, or Web site. Teachers: John Wilson, Matt Marvin, Sandy Alexander, Ted Richards, and Kirk Owen Location: Upper Vance Barron Hall (Near Franklin Street)
7
CURRICULUM
Preschool—Middle School
Rock Solid: Building A Heart of Faith "Everyone then who hears these words of mine and acts on them
will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain
fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house,
but it did not fall, because it had been founded on rock."
(Matthew 7:24–25 NRSV)
Research shows that a child’s faith is developed through interacting with adults of
faith (UMPH, 2009). Rock Solid lessons offer resources to help teachers provide
three important experiences for their students:
• A personal connection to God as faithful disciples of Christ
• Friendships among children
• Bonds between parents, leaders, and children
The Rock Solid curriculum covers core biblical stories over a three-year cycle,
and it fits stories into the church year calendar. The curriculum presents more
stories for the year than there are Church School sessions. Accordingly, teachers
are asked to plan how to either combine or eliminate stories within the curricu-
lum while staying within the Church calendar and curriculum goals for the given
age-group.
Senior High Youth Youth Feast: Feasting on the Word (9th-12th Grades)
Youth are figuring out who they are as they search for whose they are. Feasting on the Word materials provide opportunities for this age group to explore their personal and communal identity in Jesus Christ through meaningful community-building experiences, engaging Bible study, and relevant learning activities. Biblical stories will come alive in new and creative ways. In response to God's amazing, uncondi-tional love, youth will be challenged to put their faith into action as they grow to understand themselves as Christ's disciples. Each session includes a media connection section that ties the week's Scripture passage to a film, video, song, or Web site. Teachers: John Wilson, Matt Marvin, Sandy Alexander, Ted Richards, and Kirk Owen Location: Upper Vance Barron Hall (Near Franklin Street)
8
Supplementary Curriculum Materials
In order to share good ideas and cut down on preparation time, we have
teaching materials to supplement the Rock Solid curriculum. You’ll find
two resources in your classroom for your planning:
1. Supplemental material for Bible-related topics: this binder contains
activities, ideas, and resources used by teachers in past years for Bible
lessons. Feel free to copy, adapt, or come up with something entirely new
as you plan your lessons!
2. Supplemental material for worship-related topics: Worship elements
(such as stewardship, church seasons, order of worship, common prayers,
sacraments, etc.) will be fully incorporated into the regular Church
School classrooms rather than having a separate Worship Class. We want
to make this integration as easy as possible for teachers. Supplemental
materials are available for specific worship topics for your grade level dur-
ing the Church School year. There is a wealth of activities and resources
so you can do this in a way that’s efficient for you and likely to be success-
ful with your students. As always, feel free to ask the Staff Associate for
Education for additional ideas or information.
Please add your own ideas and material to these resources throughout the
year so we can continue to develop these resources!
Icebreakers and Welcoming Games
Before you begin your lesson each week you may find
that there is 5-10 minutes as children are arriving that
you need something fun to engage the class. Of
course it is always best to engage the children in conversation, asking
about their week, or their holidays, friends, school or family. This is a
great time for teachers to have more one-on-one time to build stronger
relationships with children. Genuine interest in the lives of children is a
vital part of letting them know how much they are loved!
You will also find games, icebreakers and puzzles in the Supply Closets.
(See map at the end of this handbook for locations of Supply Closets.)
8
Supplementary Curriculum Materials
In order to share good ideas and cut down on preparation time, we have
teaching materials to supplement the Rock Solid curriculum. You’ll find
two resources in your classroom for your planning:
1. Supplemental material for Bible-related topics: this binder contains
activities, ideas, and resources used by teachers in past years for Bible
lessons. Feel free to copy, adapt, or come up with something entirely new
as you plan your lessons!
2. Supplemental material for worship-related topics: Worship elements
(such as stewardship, church seasons, order of worship, common prayers,
sacraments, etc.) will be fully incorporated into the regular Church
School classrooms rather than having a separate Worship Class. We want
to make this integration as easy as possible for teachers. Supplemental
materials are available for specific worship topics for your grade level dur-
ing the Church School year. There is a wealth of activities and resources
so you can do this in a way that’s efficient for you and likely to be success-
ful with your students. As always, feel free to ask the Staff Associate for
Education for additional ideas or information.
Please add your own ideas and material to these resources throughout the
year so we can continue to develop these resources!
Icebreakers and Welcoming Games
Before you begin your lesson each week you may find
that there is 5-10 minutes as children are arriving that
you need something fun to engage the class. Of
course it is always best to engage the children in conversation, asking
about their week, or their holidays, friends, school or family. This is a
great time for teachers to have more one-on-one time to build stronger
relationships with children. Genuine interest in the lives of children is a
vital part of letting them know how much they are loved!
You will also find games, icebreakers and puzzles in the Supply Closets.
(See map at the end of this handbook for locations of Supply Closets.)
9
Teaching Teams & the Church School Calendar
On the following pages you will find a calendar that reflects many of the
important events that will be taking place in the life of the church in the
coming year. As in all of life, some things change… therefore we hope
you will be open to the Holy Spirit and “go with the flow.” Weather,
special celebrations and world events can
effect the schedule that lies ahead. We will be good models to the chil-
dren if we can balance being prepared as well as flexible! A great life les-
son for everyone!
Teaching in teams means that we will always have a sufficient number of
teachers on any given Sunday. In the event your class is in need of addi-
tional help, please know that UPC’s Nursery Staff is generally available to
help in classrooms if needed during the Church School hour. See one of
the Nursery Coordinators if you need help.
Hopefully, team teaching also will allow teachers to take a break for a few
weeks in order to attend a short term adult elective class. These classes
generally run 5-7 weeks. Together teams can discuss and decide how to
schedule these breaks.
What if I am sick or have a sick child on Sunday morning?
Another great reason for Teaching Teams! You can always contact anoth-
er teacher on your team to let them know you will be absent. If you are
unable to reach a teaching team member, feel free to contact the Staff
Introduce/familiarize children to the church and ministers.
Introduce core Christian values as they relate to Bible stories.
Learning objectives for the Kindergarten Class
Continuing development of
Giving (offering, stewardship, pennies for hunger)
Thanks (simple graces)
Praise (songs)
Belonging and church community (passing peace, church
staff)
Introduce Bible and OT/NT division.
Introduce church seasons (Advent, Lent, Pentecost).
Introduce arcs within Bible stories (e.g., baby Moses to grown up
Moses; Joseph’s multicolor coat to Joseph’s brothers sending him
to Egypt to Joseph giving his family food during the famine and
forgiving his brothers).
16
Goals for the 1st Grade Class
Introduce the idea of the Biblical narrative; begin to develop
children’s understanding that the fundamental Bible stories and
characters connect to one another.
Teach children how to follow the structure of and participate
in the worship service.
Introduce the sacraments and their significance.
Continue to develop core Christian values as an outgrowth of
what is learned from the Bible.
Nurture “Church School comfort.”
Learning Objectives for 1st Grade Class
Continue developing concepts of giving, thanks, praise, be-
longing/community.
Continue developing familiarity with the Bible and OT/NT
division.
Continue to introduce and develop arcs within Bible stories
(e.g., baby Moses to grown up Moses; Joseph’s multicolor coat
to Joseph’s brothers sending him to Egypt to Joseph giving his
family food during the famine and forgiving his brothers).
Continue developing understanding of church seasons
(Advent, Lent, Pentecost).
Introduce the pew Bible and hymnal.
Learn to follow bulletin.
Introduce sacraments (communion, baptism).
16
Goals for the 1st Grade Class
Introduce the idea of the Biblical narrative; begin to develop
children’s understanding that the fundamental Bible stories and
characters connect to one another.
Teach children how to follow the structure of and participate
in the worship service.
Introduce the sacraments and their significance.
Continue to develop core Christian values as an outgrowth of
what is learned from the Bible.
Nurture “Church School comfort.”
Learning Objectives for 1st Grade Class
Continue developing concepts of giving, thanks, praise, be-
longing/community.
Continue developing familiarity with the Bible and OT/NT
division.
Continue to introduce and develop arcs within Bible stories
(e.g., baby Moses to grown up Moses; Joseph’s multicolor coat
to Joseph’s brothers sending him to Egypt to Joseph giving his
family food during the famine and forgiving his brothers).
Continue developing understanding of church seasons
(Advent, Lent, Pentecost).
Introduce the pew Bible and hymnal.
Learn to follow bulletin.
Introduce sacraments (communion, baptism).
17
Goals for 2nd - 5th Grade Classes
Develop Bible study skills and tools.
Enhance children’s ability to participate in worship.
Enhance development of core Christian values with greater atten-
tion given to life application and community awareness/outreach.
Develop children’s understanding of the Biblical narrative; in-
crease children’s understanding of the relationships between funda-
mental Bible characters and how those stories connect to one another.
Nurture “Church School comfort.”
Learning Objectives for 2nd Grade Classes
Continue developing concepts of giving, thanks, praise, belonging/
community.
Continue developing familiarity with Bible, OT/NT division.
Introduce story arcs across Bible stories (e.g., Creation to Flood;
Abraham to Moses; Advent/ Christmas; Jesus to early church).
Continue developing understanding of church seasons (Advent,
Lent, Pentecost).
Introduce/familiarize with doxology, Lord’s prayer, Kyrie.
Introduce concept of service (IFC, Stop Hunger Now, other com-
munity service project).
Introduce books of the Bible.
Learning Objectives for 3rd Grade Classes
Continue developing concepts of giving, thanks, praise, belonging/
community.
Continue developing familiarity with the Bible and OT/NT division.
Continue to introduce and develop story arcs across Bible stories (e.g.,
Creation to Flood; Abraham to Moses; Advent/ Christmas; Jesus to
early church).
Continue developing understanding of church seasons (Advent, Lent,
Pentecost).
Continue familiarization with doxology, Lord’s prayer, Kyrie.
Continue developing concept of service (IFC, Stop Hunger Now, oth-
er community service project).
Continue familiarization with books of the Bible.
Introduce/familiarize with Apostles Creed.
17
Goals for 2nd - 5th Grade Classes
Develop Bible study skills and tools.
Enhance children’s ability to participate in worship.
Enhance development of core Christian values with greater atten-
tion given to life application and community awareness/outreach.
Develop children’s understanding of the Biblical narrative; in-
crease children’s understanding of the relationships between funda-
mental Bible characters and how those stories connect to one another.
Nurture “Church School comfort.”
Learning Objectives for 2nd Grade Classes
Continue developing concepts of giving, thanks, praise, belonging/
community.
Continue developing familiarity with Bible, OT/NT division.
Introduce story arcs across Bible stories (e.g., Creation to Flood;
Abraham to Moses; Advent/ Christmas; Jesus to early church).
Continue developing understanding of church seasons (Advent,
Lent, Pentecost).
Introduce/familiarize with doxology, Lord’s prayer, Kyrie.
Introduce concept of service (IFC, Stop Hunger Now, other com-
munity service project).
Introduce books of the Bible.
Learning Objectives for 3rd Grade Classes
Continue developing concepts of giving, thanks, praise, belonging/
community.
Continue developing familiarity with the Bible and OT/NT division.
Continue to introduce and develop story arcs across Bible stories (e.g.,
Creation to Flood; Abraham to Moses; Advent/ Christmas; Jesus to
early church).
Continue developing understanding of church seasons (Advent, Lent,
Pentecost).
Continue familiarization with doxology, Lord’s prayer, Kyrie.
Continue developing concept of service (IFC, Stop Hunger Now, oth-
er community service project).
Continue familiarization with books of the Bible.
Introduce/familiarize with Apostles Creed.
18
Goals for 6-7th Grade Class
Solidify children’s understanding of the Biblical narrative as a whole; de-
velop the “big picture” (i.e., Creation to Israel to Jesus to beginnings and devel-
opment of the church).
Develop children’s understanding of Biblical history.
Nurture and support children’s development of relationships to peers and
adults.
Enhance and develop children’s understanding of outreach as an expression
of Christian faith.
Begin to develop a more mature faith perspective and enhance children’s
worship experience.
Prepare youth to make a public affirmation of their belief in Jesus Christ as
their Lord and Savior and become active members of the UPC congregation.
Learning Objectives for 6-7th Grade Class
Continuing developing concepts of giving, thanks, praise, belonging/
community.
Continue developing familiarity with the Bible and OT/NT division.
Develop children’s understanding of the Biblical narrative as a whole; develop
the “big picture” (e.g., Creation to Israel to Jesus to beginnings and develop-
ment of the church).
Continue developing understanding of church seasons.
Continue familiarization with doxology, Lord’s prayer, Kyrie.
Continue developing concept of service (IFC, Stop Hunger Now, other com-
munity service project).
Continue familiarization with books of the Bible, Apostles Creed, 10 Com-
mandments.
Continue developing familiarity with Biblical study tools (Bible dictionary,
Bible concordance).
Continue familiarization with different kinds of prayer (thanksgiving, interces-
sion, petition, forgiveness).
Introduce specific scriptural passage (e.g., Beatitudes, 23rd Psalm, Micah 6:8).
Introduce/familiarize with historical timeline of the Biblical narrative.
Examine the historical roots of Judaism.
Introduce organizational principles particular to the PCUSA
Solidify understanding of core Christian values and beliefs.
Memorize fundamental belief statements (e.g., Apostles Creed, Lord’s Prayer,
23 Psalm, etc.).
Prepare for membership in the church. 18
Goals for 6-7th Grade Class
Solidify children’s understanding of the Biblical narrative as a whole; de-
velop the “big picture” (i.e., Creation to Israel to Jesus to beginnings and devel-
opment of the church).
Develop children’s understanding of Biblical history.
Nurture and support children’s development of relationships to peers and
adults.
Enhance and develop children’s understanding of outreach as an expression
of Christian faith.
Begin to develop a more mature faith perspective and enhance children’s
worship experience.
Prepare youth to make a public affirmation of their belief in Jesus Christ as
their Lord and Savior and become active members of the UPC congregation.
Learning Objectives for 6-7th Grade Class
Continuing developing concepts of giving, thanks, praise, belonging/
community.
Continue developing familiarity with the Bible and OT/NT division.
Develop children’s understanding of the Biblical narrative as a whole; develop
the “big picture” (e.g., Creation to Israel to Jesus to beginnings and develop-
ment of the church).
Continue developing understanding of church seasons.
Continue familiarization with doxology, Lord’s prayer, Kyrie.
Continue developing concept of service (IFC, Stop Hunger Now, other com-
munity service project).
Continue familiarization with books of the Bible, Apostles Creed, 10 Com-
mandments.
Continue developing familiarity with Biblical study tools (Bible dictionary,
Bible concordance).
Continue familiarization with different kinds of prayer (thanksgiving, interces-
sion, petition, forgiveness).
Introduce specific scriptural passage (e.g., Beatitudes, 23rd Psalm, Micah 6:8).
Introduce/familiarize with historical timeline of the Biblical narrative.
Examine the historical roots of Judaism.
Introduce organizational principles particular to the PCUSA
Solidify understanding of core Christian values and beliefs.
Memorize fundamental belief statements (e.g., Apostles Creed, Lord’s Prayer,
23 Psalm, etc.).
Prepare for membership in the church.
19
Goals for 8th Grade Class
Develop and encourage habitual study of the Bible as a re-
source for life.
Develop thinking about and application of Jesus’ core teach-
ings as revealed in the Gospels.
Learning objectives for 8th Grade Class
Continue developing historical timeline of the Biblical
narrative.
Solidify Bible study skills.
Solidify familiarity with Jesus’ teachings as revealed in the
gospels.
Provide opportunities to intentionally apply Jesus’ teachings
through service.
Goals for 9-12th Grade Class
Solidify Bible study skills.
Increase individual awareness of personal strengths founded
in Christian values as life tools. Provide opportunities for
youth to examine how their personal Christian values apply to
current and future real life situations.
Develop ability to use their Christian values as a guiding force
and tool in making decisions, taking action, understanding
complex issues, etc.
Learning Objectives for 9-12th Grade Class
Solidify student’s understanding of the Biblical narrative and
its application in life.
Resource:
United Methodist Publishing House. (2009). Rock Solid Curriculum: The
Foundation. Online: http://www.iamrocksolid.com.
19
Goals for 8th Grade Class
Develop and encourage habitual study of the Bible as a re-
source for life.
Develop thinking about and application of Jesus’ core teach-
ings as revealed in the Gospels.
Learning objectives for 8th Grade Class
Continue developing historical timeline of the Biblical
narrative.
Solidify Bible study skills.
Solidify familiarity with Jesus’ teachings as revealed in the
gospels.
Provide opportunities to intentionally apply Jesus’ teachings
through service.
Goals for 9-12th Grade Class
Solidify Bible study skills.
Increase individual awareness of personal strengths founded
in Christian values as life tools. Provide opportunities for
youth to examine how their personal Christian values apply to
current and future real life situations.
Develop ability to use their Christian values as a guiding force
and tool in making decisions, taking action, understanding
complex issues, etc.
Learning Objectives for 9-12th Grade Class
Solidify student’s understanding of the Biblical narrative and
its application in life.
Resource:
United Methodist Publishing House. (2009). Rock Solid Curriculum: The
Foundation. Online: http://www.iamrocksolid.com.
20
Five Basic Beliefs of the
Reformed Tradition
Based on the writings of John Calvin and
other theologians, Rodger Nishioka, coordinator
for the youth and young adults’ ministries in the
Christian Education program area of the General Assembly Council of
the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), has put together five key tenets of
Reformed theology. We use these tenets as one means for assessing
and planning our education programs. Classes for all ages should mod-
el these tenets and follow the Reformed tradition in clearly identifia-
ble ways.
Tenet One: Presbyterians hold up the sovereignty of
God.
We see worship as the heart of our tradition. We come
to worship because the one who made us and re-
deemed us and sustains us is so amazing that we
can do nothing else but worship God.
We emphasize the God of the Trinity. We focus on God
the Creator, the father and mother of us all, who is
uniquely revealed to us in Jesus Christ and is pre-
sent through the Holy Spirit.
We worship a God who is with us now, present, and active in
our lives. God not only watches us from a distance,
but also from within our midst. God is sovereign.
God is everywhere.
In other words… God is in control. God is at work in us and
is certainly not finished with us. Our theology of God’s sov-
ereignty reminds us that God is all-powerful, but that in
God’s power, God has allowed humans to make choices. Even
when we make poor choices God promises to always be with
us. This is the real meaning of Emmanuel.
20
Five Basic Beliefs of the
Reformed Tradition
Based on the writings of John Calvin and
other theologians, Rodger Nishioka, coordinator
for the youth and young adults’ ministries in the
Christian Education program area of the General Assembly Council of
the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), has put together five key tenets of
Reformed theology. We use these tenets as one means for assessing
and planning our education programs. Classes for all ages should mod-
el these tenets and follow the Reformed tradition in clearly identifia-
ble ways.
Tenet One: Presbyterians hold up the sovereignty of
God.
We see worship as the heart of our tradition. We come
to worship because the one who made us and re-
deemed us and sustains us is so amazing that we
can do nothing else but worship God.
We emphasize the God of the Trinity. We focus on God
the Creator, the father and mother of us all, who is
uniquely revealed to us in Jesus Christ and is pre-
sent through the Holy Spirit.
We worship a God who is with us now, present, and active in
our lives. God not only watches us from a distance,
but also from within our midst. God is sovereign.
God is everywhere.
In other words… God is in control. God is at work in us and
is certainly not finished with us. Our theology of God’s sov-
ereignty reminds us that God is all-powerful, but that in
God’s power, God has allowed humans to make choices. Even
when we make poor choices God promises to always be with
us. This is the real meaning of Emmanuel.
21
Tenet Two: Presbyterians are formed and reformed by
God’s word in Scripture.
Presbyterians are known as “the people of the Word.”
Theology for us possesses the key task of inter-
preting the biblical message. This means that we
find the authority of Christ in Scripture.
We believe in the God of the Bible. While we struggle with
some of the texts in Scripture, we do not discount
them, nor do we worship the Bible as some other
traditions do. We believe that God’s greatest reve-
lation is found in the New Testament in Jesus
Christ, but that does not mean we dismiss the Old
Testament. We do understand that God’s Word as
expressed in Scripture stands in a historical setting,
so we pay particular attention to context to gain
meaning. Even more, we rely on the Holy Spirit to
help us understand Scripture in our context today.
We are more interested in the spirit of Scripture than the
letter of Scripture. While we focus on the Word,
we do not so literally. Because we take Scripture in
context, we seek to understand what Scripture
meant to its original writers and the original readers
and hearers. Such an understanding then informs
our understanding today. God’s word always stands
in history but is in no way bound by history.
In other words… We must be engaged in regular Bible
study.
21
Tenet Two: Presbyterians are formed and reformed by
God’s word in Scripture.
Presbyterians are known as “the people of the Word.”
Theology for us possesses the key task of inter-
preting the biblical message. This means that we
find the authority of Christ in Scripture.
We believe in the God of the Bible. While we struggle with
some of the texts in Scripture, we do not discount
them, nor do we worship the Bible as some other
traditions do. We believe that God’s greatest reve-
lation is found in the New Testament in Jesus
Christ, but that does not mean we dismiss the Old
Testament. We do understand that God’s Word as
expressed in Scripture stands in a historical setting,
so we pay particular attention to context to gain
meaning. Even more, we rely on the Holy Spirit to
help us understand Scripture in our context today.
We are more interested in the spirit of Scripture than the
letter of Scripture. While we focus on the Word,
we do not so literally. Because we take Scripture in
context, we seek to understand what Scripture
meant to its original writers and the original readers
and hearers. Such an understanding then informs
our understanding today. God’s word always stands
in history but is in no way bound by history.
In other words… We must be engaged in regular Bible
study.
22
Tenet Three: Presbyterians focus on glorifying God,
the coming of God’s kingdom and the acceptance of
God's salvation.
We see our first task as glorifying God. God is at work
in all our lives and any commitment is not an end-all in
itself but one step in the journey called faithfulness and
discipleship.
We trust in God’s sovereignty. Salvation is God’s gift.
There is nothing we can do to earn it. Presbyteri-
ans believe that we don’t save; only God saves.
Our job is to be faithful. Of course we offer op-
portunities for people to receive Christ as Lord
and Savior and opportunities for people to reded-
icate their lives to Christ, but salvation is up to
God.
We see faith as a response to God’s grace. We live
faithfully not to earn God’s grace but in response
to it.
In other words… Our primary goal is to be faithful as
disciples of Jesus Christ.
Tenet Four: Presbyterians believe the church is the
Holy community.
We believe that God’s call comes both personally and
corporately. This means that both the individual
and the community must validate any call.
We are a committee people. Committees are an expres-
sion of our theology. Since community is so im-
portant, we do everything in groups. We believe
that we are enhanced and even more faithful
when we gather together.
22
Tenet Three: Presbyterians focus on glorifying God,
the coming of God’s kingdom and the acceptance of
God's salvation.
We see our first task as glorifying God. God is at work
in all our lives and any commitment is not an end-all in
itself but one step in the journey called faithfulness and
discipleship.
We trust in God’s sovereignty. Salvation is God’s gift.
There is nothing we can do to earn it. Presbyteri-
ans believe that we don’t save; only God saves.
Our job is to be faithful. Of course we offer op-
portunities for people to receive Christ as Lord
and Savior and opportunities for people to reded-
icate their lives to Christ, but salvation is up to
God.
We see faith as a response to God’s grace. We live
faithfully not to earn God’s grace but in response
to it.
In other words… Our primary goal is to be faithful as
disciples of Jesus Christ.
Tenet Four: Presbyterians believe the church is the
Holy community.
We believe that God’s call comes both personally and
corporately. This means that both the individual
and the community must validate any call.
We are a committee people. Committees are an expres-
sion of our theology. Since community is so im-
portant, we do everything in groups. We believe
that we are enhanced and even more faithful
when we gather together.
23
We are a connected people. We participate in each gov-
erning body in our congregations, presbyteries,
synods, and the General Assembly. No one part
dominates.
In other words… community is key. We don’t have an al-
tar… we have a communion table around which we gather
as a community.
Tenet Five: Presbyterians engage our minds and wills
for God’s glory.
We study a lot.
We do things decently and in order.
We are known for being aware of what is happening in
the world around us and trying to defend the
defenseless.
In other words… whether it is a Bible study, a book discus-
sion, a movie group, or any number of other things… we are
engaged in thinking critically about what God might have us
do and be in the world.
23
We are a connected people. We participate in each gov-
erning body in our congregations, presbyteries,
synods, and the General Assembly. No one part
dominates.
In other words… community is key. We don’t have an al-
tar… we have a communion table around which we gather
as a community.
Tenet Five: Presbyterians engage our minds and wills
for God’s glory.
We study a lot.
We do things decently and in order.
We are known for being aware of what is happening in
the world around us and trying to defend the
defenseless.
In other words… whether it is a Bible study, a book discus-
sion, a movie group, or any number of other things… we are
engaged in thinking critically about what God might have us
do and be in the world.
24
Map of the Lower Level
24
Map of the Lower Level
25
Map of the Upper Level
25
Map of the Upper Level
26
Soul Food for the Teaching Spirit The following readings are prayers, poems, songs, or reflections as reminders
that even the teaching spirit needs to be fed. Look for more Soul Food for your-
self… and share! Please remember to feed you own spirit regularly. Thank you
again for your commitment to the children and youth of our church family!
You Reading This, Be Ready
Starting here, what do you want to remember? How sunlight creeps along a shining floor? What scent of old wood hovers, what softened sound from outside fills the air?
Will you ever bring a better gift for the world than the breathing respect that you carry wherever you go right now? Are you waiting for time to show you some better thoughts?
When you turn around, starting here, lift this new glimpse that you found; carry into evening all that you want from this day. This interval you spent reading or hearing this, keep it for life--
What can anyone give you greater
than now,
starting here, right in this room,
when you turn around?
Source: Teaching With Fire
The Rock Too High for Me
Up toward the rock too high for me, too tall for my small reach, I clam-bered, but in vain. I was cast down to sober earth again.
Who would believe me if I cared to tell that Love wrought this undoing, that Love's hand dashed me from heights, then kindly offered me wit to have peace in shadows where I stand?
Who would believe me if I said that grace devised this lodging in a lowly place?
Though bathed in an immeasurable
forgiveness, a blinding love that
wakes the furthest trust, yet I am
Moses straining his eyes on Pisgah;
I am Job, stopping his mouth with
ashes; I am Jeremiah, face in the dust.
Source: Selected Poetry of Jessica Powers edited by Regina Siegfried and Robert Morneau
The Ultimate Task
Love is difficult. For one human being to love another human being: that is perhaps the most difficult task that has been entrusted to us, the ultimate task, the final test and proof, the work for which all other work is merely preparation. By Rainer Maria Rilke
26
Soul Food for the Teaching Spirit The following readings are prayers, poems, songs, or reflections as reminders
that even the teaching spirit needs to be fed. Look for more Soul Food for your-
self… and share! Please remember to feed you own spirit regularly. Thank you
again for your commitment to the children and youth of our church family!
You Reading This, Be Ready
Starting here, what do you want to remember? How sunlight creeps along a shining floor? What scent of old wood hovers, what softened sound from outside fills the air?
Will you ever bring a better gift for the world than the breathing respect that you carry wherever you go right now? Are you waiting for time to show you some better thoughts?
When you turn around, starting here, lift this new glimpse that you found; carry into evening all that you want from this day. This interval you spent reading or hearing this, keep it for life--
What can anyone give you greater
than now,
starting here, right in this room,
when you turn around?
Source: Teaching With Fire
The Rock Too High for Me
Up toward the rock too high for me, too tall for my small reach, I clam-bered, but in vain. I was cast down to sober earth again.
Who would believe me if I cared to tell that Love wrought this undoing, that Love's hand dashed me from heights, then kindly offered me wit to have peace in shadows where I stand?
Who would believe me if I said that grace devised this lodging in a lowly place?
Though bathed in an immeasurable
forgiveness, a blinding love that
wakes the furthest trust, yet I am
Moses straining his eyes on Pisgah;
I am Job, stopping his mouth with
ashes; I am Jeremiah, face in the dust.
Source: Selected Poetry of Jessica Powers edited by Regina Siegfried and Robert Morneau
The Ultimate Task
Love is difficult. For one human being to love another human being: that is perhaps the most difficult task that has been entrusted to us, the ultimate task, the final test and proof, the work for which all other work is merely preparation. By Rainer Maria Rilke
"Real isn't how you are made," said the Skin Horse. "It's a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but really loves you, then you become Real."
"Does it hurt?" asked the Rabbit.
"Sometimes," said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. "When you are Real, you don't mind being hurt."
"Does it happen all at once, like being wound up," he asked, "or bit by bit?"
"It doesn't happen all at once," said the Skin Horse. "You become. It takes a
long time. That's why it doesn't often happen to people who break easily, or
have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you
are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out, and you
get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all,
because once you are Real, you can't be ugly, except to people who don't un-
derstand." Source: The Velveteen Rabbit
Embracing Brokenness To embrace one's brokenness,
whatever it looks like, whatever has
caused it, carries within it the possi-
bility that one might come to em-
brace one's healing, and then one
might come to the next step: to
embrace another and their broken-
ness and their possibility for being
healed. To avoid one's brokenness
is to turn one's back on the possibil-
ity that the Healer might be at work
here, perhaps for you, perhaps for
another. Source: Living Prayer
27
Children Show Us How to Be Real
"Real isn't how you are made," said the Skin Horse. "It's a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but really loves you, then you become Real."
"Does it hurt?" asked the Rabbit.
"Sometimes," said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. "When you are Real, you don't mind being hurt."
"Does it happen all at once, like being wound up," he asked, "or bit by bit?"
"It doesn't happen all at once," said the Skin Horse. "You become. It takes a
long time. That's why it doesn't often happen to people who break easily, or
have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you
are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out, and you
get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all,
because once you are Real, you can't be ugly, except to people who don't un-