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As part of its all-age education hour, St. Matthew's offers classes for children ages three through the fourth grade, and educational programs for youth grades 5 through 12 (See the youth section for more details). The education hour is from 9:15 to 10:15 am Sunday morning, between our two services.
St. Matthew's was an early adopter of the innovative Godly Play program, which applies Montessori teaching methods to Christian education. Godly Play is taught to children in preschool through Grade 2. In a nutshell, Godly Play creates sacred space for children and adults, provides the tools for religious language and fosters creativity and imagination.
A Godly Play session includes time to:
- get ready
- tell a story using objects
- explore the story more with open "wondering" questions and discussion
- respond with a free choice using a variety of materials
- enjoy a simple feast
Imagine someone who....
- creates a space to think big
- learns as well as teaches
- doesn't always know the answer
- builds a community
- enables children to make connections
- is open to the unexpected
- slows down the pace
- provides the tools then stands back
For children in grades 3 and 4, we are using a curriculum called "Faith for Life2". This approach offers hands-on activities and particular attention to worship. We are trying to connect what we do on Sunday mornings in church with identifiable components the children understand. Lessons include the Apostle's Creed (what we believe), the sacraments,confession, stories and prayer. We also use the Children's Bible in 365 Stories and individual student workbooks to take home.
To enroll your child in Godly Play or Faith for Life, please contact Lis Christenson by e-mail at lisdc@comcast.net or phone 651-646-2969. We are always looking for youth or adults to join this important ministry. You can become involved in the classrooms as a teacher or an assistant. Consider joining us to share your gifts for music, creative writing, art or storytelling. We welcome all your talents!
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A Growing Program. From 2005 to 2007, Sunday School enrollment at St. Matthew's increased by over 70%! We now have 50 students and 17 teachers and assistants.
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