SPECIAL CHURCH SCHOOL EVENTS & PROGRAMS
   

Children are a special gift to us at St. Peter’s and we have endeavored to create a children’s ministry that combines quality education with hands-on learning experiences. We list here some of the liturgical/worship events that will help nurture children in the traditions of the Church. More information will be available as each event approaches.

LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT WREATH (Sundays in Advent)
Each Church School class will present the Lighting of the Advent Wreath on one of the four Sundays during Advent. Children from the class designated to lead the lighting will gather in the church at 10 a.m. and then process to their classes following the ceremony.

THE CHRISTMAS PAGEANT (December 20)
The Christmas Pageant will be held on the 4th Sunday of Advent, December 20th,  as part of the 10 a.m. Eucharist. We hope that having the Pageant at this time will enable more children to participate, and make it a more relaxing time for families. A Christmas party for all will follow the Eucharist. 

Sign-up Sunday is Nov. 22, but non-speaking parts will continue to be available to all children.
The rehearsal schedule is as follows:
     Sunday, Dec. 6th  (after 10 a.m. service)
     Sunday, Dec. 13th, 9:15-9:45 a.m. (before Church School) for speaking parts and a full rehearsal after the 10 a.m. service
     Saturday, Dec. 19th, 9 a.m. dress rehearsal
     Sunday, Dec. 20 th, 10 a.m. - the Pageant!
Please join us! If you have questions, please contact Barbara Alexander (860-228-8330; email: b_alexander01@yahoo.com) or Candace O’Shea
(860-228-4156; email: d-coshea@sbcglobal.net)
  
About the 4:30 Christmas Eve Family Eucharist (December 24)
Families are encouraged to join us on Christmas Eve for a Family Eucharist at 4:30 p.m. The service will include the reading of the Christmas story, a manger tableau scene in which all children present will be invited to participate, the singing of Christmas carols, and other special surprises to make this an especially memorable time for children and adults alike.
   
THREE KINGS CELEBRATION (January 10)
The procession of the kings, the offering of gifts, and a festive coffee hour including the partaking of Kings’ Cake are all part of our celebration on this the First Sunday after the Epiphany.
  
THE EPIPHANY PAGEANT (February 14)
The Epiphany Pageant will be presented by members of the youth and confirmation classes as part of the 10:00 a.m. celebration of Holy Eucharist.  The Pageant relates the meaning of Epiphany and how the Gospel of Jesus brings light to the world.
   
CHILDREN’S MUSIC PROGRAM
Music is an integral part of our Church School program. Linda Spector, organist and Choir Director, will join the Church School each Sunday for 10 minutes at the end of class time to share with them the gift of music. Children will sing the songs learned during Music Time in church at various times during the year. Our Youth Choir is available for older children who wish to further pursue their interest in music. 
  
YOUTH SUNDAYS (November 22 & dates in 2010 TBA)
Something new this year!  On these Sundays children in grade 3 and up will remain with their families for the entire service while younger children will join their families at the Peace. On Youth Sundays children will serve as Acolytes, Readers, Intercessors, Ushers, Greeters and Gift Bearers for the day.  In addition, special music will be sung by the Youth Choir and, when appropriate, youth will serve as Chalice Bearers. The sermon and other teaching moments will be designed to involve children in the life, worship and ministry of the Church.
   
 “UNDERSTANDING COMMUNION” GATHERINGS FOR CHILDREN (March)
Father Perry will be offering a program, “Understanding Communion,” this year during Lent for any interested member of the Church School. The gatherings will include activities, hands-on discussion and the baking of Communion bread. Children who presently receive Communion will find this offering can deepen their understanding of what they are doing. Those who do not yet receive will find these sessions of value as a First Communion preparation. Any children attending will be invited to participate in the Maundy Thursday Service on April 1 and be recognized in a special way at that time.