Children's Ministry

Fall Festival 2008 Workers

St. Mark has a growing, dynamic ministry to children. Every teacher and worker in the department is qualified and gifted. We are compliant with the United Methodist guidelines for Safe Sanctuaries. We are in the process of becoming certified as a Church for All God's Children through the Bishop's Initiative on Children and Poverty. Most importantly, St. Mark provides a loving, caring and fun environment for children to be nurtured in the Christian faith.
Nursery A fully-staffed nursery is available for Sunday morning and Wednesday night services, and often for special services, as well. The nursery facilities are clean and sanitized, well-stocked, and equipped. The nursery follows strict safety and security policies and provides a nurturing environment for our many babies and toddlers.
Wednesday night Children meet for Bible Study each Wednesday at 6:00. The Wednesday activity is fun and educational, and often has a service element. They play games in the fellowship hall, have meal, and regularly make seasonally appropriate crafts for the home-bound.
Sunday School The Children's Sunday School classes use an integrated curriculum from Abingdon Press which teaches discipleship throughout the Christian year. The curriculum is interactive and engages the children's creative faculties at each level of development.
Children's Church Children have the option to leave the sanctuary after the Children's Moments to participate in Children's Church. Children's Director Jamie Allen leads the Children's Church with the help of several regular assistants. The aim of Children's Church is to provide an age-appropriate worship experience that will train children as disciples and prepare them to understand and engage a worship experience in the United Methodist tradition. The lessons are Biblical based and the songs and liturgy teach the children to become comfortable with traditional elements of worship such as the Lord's Prayer, doxology, and creeds.
Special Events Each spring, St. Mark and our neighboring church, the First Christian Church, offer an Easter egg hunt to the East Montgomery community. The Easter bunny stops by, eggs are distributed throughout the church grounds, and delicious food is served by the congregation.

Vacation Bible School comes early each summer, providing a break for parents and an opportunity to hear the Gospel for every child. Our program offers a host of teachers, crafts, food, music, and special activities.

	At the end of October, the Children's Ministry hosts Fall Festival. Activities include hayrides, cakewalk, bobbing for apples, and over a dozen carnival style games. Delicious food is everywhere and every child goes home with lots of candy and goodies.
In addition, the children's ministry hosts smaller activities all year round. Join us for Wednesday activities throughout the summer, visiting the nursing homes, and many more!

Girl Scouts Girl Scout Troop 130 meets at St. Mark and is an important part of the life of the church. The scouts participate in scouting Sundays, service projects and visitation to home bound church members.