Our Children, Youth & Family ministry team offers Christian formation through a faith-enriching curriculum and community-building events. Our staff works collaboratively with parishioners to nurture faith journeys from preschool through high school graduation. We welcome all – whether long-tenured or brand-new to the parish – to join these programs. With questions, please contact the Rev. Jonathan McManus-Dail, Priest for Children, Youth & Families or Beth Charrier, Formation Ministry Group Leader for more information.
Early Church is a brief but liturgically and spiritually rich service where our youngest church members can sing, pray, learn about Jesus, and worship in a setting created just for them. With special attention to elementary- age children, this service welcomes all who enjoy a participatory and fun worship, a gospel-centered story time, and familiar music that’s easy to sing along with.
Nursery care is provided for our youngest members (under 3 years old) every Sunday during the 10:30a services on both of our campuses. In a warm and nurturing environment, we will assist you in beginning to build your child’s faith foundation. The nursery is conveniently located on the ground level adjacent to the church building and the Parish Life Center on the Windsor campus and next to the parish hall at the Hill. We look forward to greeting you and your children for nursery care!
Children and Youth (Rising 2nd Grade – 12th Grade) are invited to participate in Children’s Choir. Choristers will learn music and singing basics while rehearsing repertoire for special events and holidays throughout the year. For more information, please contact Ciara Gallagher.
Youth in 6th grade and up are invited to join fellow acolytes for weekly conversations about worship, faith, and following Jesus. Together, we’ll explore how serving as an acolyte can deepen your spiritual journey, learn more about worship in the Episcopal tradition, and practice the skills that help make worship meaningful and welcoming. Attendance is strongly encouraged for youth serving on that Sunday’s acolyte team, but all are welcome. For more information, please contact the Rev. Jonathan McManus-Dail.
Our Godly Play program is a creative, imaginative approach to Christian formation and spiritual guidance for children 3 years old (potty trained) through 2nd grade. Every Sunday children gather in our education center to learn about the Bible and explore God’s expansive presence and unconditional love for them. Check-in begins at 10:15a with Godly Play lessons starting at 10:30a. Pick up children at the Peace so they can join you for Holy Communion. For more information, please contact the Rev. Jonathan McManus-Dail.
Kids in 3rd–5th grade are encouraged to join with their friends every Sunday morning for a Bible Study that is fun and informative. Building on the foundation kids receive in our Godly Play program, this Bible Study is intended to help late-elementary kids develop biblical literacy and a vocabulary of faith alongside their peers. For more information, please contact the Rev. Jonathan McManus-Dail.
Youth are invited to gather each week for dinner, conversation, and Bible study in a small group setting designed for asking questions, growing in faith, and exploring scripture together. Along the way, participants will also learn more about the Episcopal tradition and how faith connects to everyday life.
Dinner is provided.
Step away from the business of fall semester and enjoy a refreshing weekend of rest, fun, and connection. Spend time with friends new and old, while deepening your faith and enjoying all Camp Allen has to offer. For Good Shepherd youth grades 6th-12th. Register by September 4 by clicking here.
Youth in 9th grade and up are invited to join us for a weekend retreat to explore the Christian faith and the Episcopal tradition as they consider the Rite of Confirmation. We’ll gather for teaching, conversation, and plenty of time to relax and have fun together. Cost: $200 (includes meals, lodging, transportation, camp activities, a study Bible, and The Book of Common Prayer). Scholarships available. Meet at Good Shepherd at 5:00p Friday and return by 2:30p Sunday. Participating in this retreat is discernment and preparation for Confirmation at our next bishop’s visit. For more information, please contact the Rev. Jonathan McManus-Dail.