Programs for Younger Children

 

Children of all ages and families of all kinds are welcome at St. Thomas.

 

Children’s Chapel: We invite new families to join us Sunday mornings for our 10 AM worship in the church or on Zoom. For those that wish to participate, our Children’s Chapel starts shortly after the service begins and the children return during the exchange of the peace.  

 

In Children’s Chapel, children participate in Godly Play, and use storytelling, hands-on tools, and activities, to encourage their God-given imaginations and teach them about the life of Christ. They learn, have fun, and make new friends. 

 

Childcare During the Church Service: Held during our 10 AM service, the St. Thomas cribbery welcomes children three and under while their parents attend church. Children have the opportunity to play and rest as needed under the supervision of our childcare professional, Ms. Nicole Warga, who has worked at St. Thomas for nearly 20 years.

 

Baptism:

If you have a family member interested in Baptism, let us know! We routinely do baptisms throughout the year. 

 

 

Programs for Youth and Teens

 

We want to help children and teens manage the stresses of everyday life and grow in their relationship to God. We see our church as a place of refuge, healing, and community. Recognizing that families are often pulled in many different directions, our program is designed to be flexible to meet the needs of busy families.

 

Welcome Table Family Service: Welcome Table is a contemporary service once-a-month on Sunday afternoons from 4-6 PM. Families gather in our parish hall for worship, formation for people of all ages, and a communal dinner. Everyone gets the opportunity to explore God’s presence in their lives, hear Bible stories, make friends, and ask questions about their faith.

 

New families are welcome!  Check here to find out when the next Welcome Table Family Service will take place.

 

Sunday Mornings: We invite older children and teens to assist in worship, read scripture as lectors, usher, assist with Zoom worship, or sing in the choir. We know everyone can contribute, and we try to find a place for our young people that intersects with their passions.

 

Confirmation:  Our confirmation program is organized around our bishop’s visits St. Thomas (generally every other year). 

 

 

If you have any questions, please contact Rev. Will Drosos at will.drosos@stthomasmcleanva.org.

 

 

The Episcopal Church requires background checks and Praesidium Academy’s Safe Church, Safe Communities training for all staff and volunteers who work with children.