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Faith Stepping Stones
What are "Faith Stepping Stones?"This program is a partnership between parents and others in the church family who promise to provide nurture and guidance to children as they grow toward spiritual maturity. We are intentional, helping them to grow and develop into fully-devoted followers of Christ. The "stepping stones" are aappropriate faith formation activities and events for each developmental stage. This framework helps you as a parent know how to help your child understand God and grow in faith as they grow up.
Nurturing Our Children in Faith
STEP ONE: BAPTISM
Through the sacrament of baptism, our children are adopted into God's family. Their St. Andrew's family welcomes them and promises to care for them and nurture their faith. These are promises that are fulfilled as your family participates over the years in the programs and community of St. Andrew's.
STEP TWO: ENTER SUNDAY SCHOOL
Building upon the parents' promise to "bring their children up in the knowledge and love of God," we promise to provide Christian learning opportunities. These promises are fulfilled in the weekly "Children's Messages" during worship, the St. Andrew's LightHouse Sunday School, and Vacation Bible School.
STEP THREE: COMMUNION
When children are old enough to be instructed in the meaning of the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, and appear ready, they are welcome to join other members of the congregation in this holy meal. We celebrate communion on the first Sunday of each month. Every January, our pastors teach a special class for children and their parents. A class on communion is one of the offerings in a three year rotation.
STEP FOUR: FIRST BIBLE
As children enter the third grade, they receive a Bible. Our pastors teach Bible "orientation" as one of the January classes for children and their parents. The basic Bible skills they cover are the beginning point for studying the Bible and growing in knowledge of God.
STEP FIVE: ENTER CONFIRMATION
Confirmation means to "confirm the promise made at baptism." Youth entering sixth grade and higher may engage in a confirmation class. This deeper study and reflection on basic Christianity is offered in the winter and spring. Our middle school Sunday morning program provides a lead-in to the Confirmation class.
STEP SIX: COMPLETE CONFIRMATION
Upon completion of the confirmation class, teens are invited to join in full participation in the life, worship and mission of St. Andrew's as active members. At this point, they will be allowed to serve as deacons, worship assistants, greeters and ushers, and take on other important roles in the church.
STEP SEVEN: ENTER HIGH SCHOOL
During our teens' high school years, St. Andrew's provides a safe place for them to continue growing in faith, serving in the church, participating in mission trips, and enjoying the fellowship of other teens in a fun and caring atmosphere. St. Andrew's youth group has a program of fun events that are open to all; studies to help teens grow in spiritual maturity; and leadership and service opportunities.
STEP EIGHT: HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION
High School graduation marks an important step into adulthood. We celebrate with our graduates in a special worship service. As a church family, we want them to know that, as they leave us for college and jobs, God goes with them and remains faithful. We also want them to know that, no matter where their life takes them, there is always a warm welcome back to St. Andrew's.
