CHRISTIAN EDUCATION @ CALVARY
Christian Education is part of the vital ministry of Calvary Church. Walter Brueggemann once said, “Every community that wants to last beyond a single generation must concern itself with education.” This is especially true for the church. If we do not educate, we are one generation away from extinction. We cannot understand what it means to be a Christian and to follow Christ unless there is guidance and nurture through education.
At Calvary, Christian education is a thread that is woven in all we do. We believe that Christian education happens whenever the church meets. It occurs when we come together in worship, fellowship, mission work, caring ministries, and times of study. Education takes place throughout the whole life of the congregation.
One of the components of our educational process at Calvary is Sunday School. Classes meet every Sunday morning at 9:00 AM.
• Children ages 3 through 5th grade come together in an innovative one-room approach. Live B.I.G.’s One Big Room provides a way for them to live B.I.G. (Belief in God) together. Children are engaged at their age level and learn through activities, music, motion, and drama.
• Youth (6th grade – 12th grade) continue living out their belief in God through small group discussions, service projects, and helping with the younger children from time to time.
• Adults gather together, study scripture, and engage in small group discussions. They enjoy a variety of short-term studies that have been written by Philip Yancey, John Ortberg, Andy Stanley, Tony Campolo, Adam Hamilton, and many others. From time to time they utilize The Wired Word, a lively, timely lesson that both educates class members biblically and engages them in energetic discussion over matters in the news each week.
Another important component of Christian education at Calvary is Bible study. Small groups meet for in-depth study of scripture and life application.
Book studies have also been a part of the educational program. In the past, small groups have met to read and discuss books such as The Shack and Have a Little Faith by Mitch Albom.
Summer programs for children are offered such as Vacation Bible School, Music Camp, and Sports Camp. All of these activities are biblically based and provide the children an opportunity to learn of God’s love through lessons, music, fun activities, and interaction with caring youth and adults.
We believe that God is at work in our midst, forming people in his likeness. Through the educational program we are partnering with God, faithful to our mission to make disciples for Jesus Christ, and to teach and train people of all ages for ministry.