Children and Youth
Rooted in the extravagant love of God and the inclusive way of Jesus, our ministry of Christian education and youth formation seeks to nurture curiosity, compassion, and courage in every young person. We create safe and affirming spaces where children and youth are encouraged to ask questions, wrestle with faith, and discover their unique gifts. Through worship, study, service, and play, we accompany them as they grow in wisdom and spirit, deepening their connection to God, to one another, and to the wider world. Our mission is to empower the next generation to live out a faith that embraces diversity, seeks justice, practices kindness, and follows Christ’s call to love without limits.
Purpose Statement
At Parkway UCC, our Christian Education program nurtures curiosity, deepens faith, and equips all ages to live God’s love in the world. We embrace questions as much as answers, honoring the wisdom each person brings to the journey. Rooted in the life and teachings of Jesus, we create space for learning that is progressive, inclusive, and open to the Spirit’s leading. In classrooms, in worship, and in community, we celebrate diversity, affirm the dignity of every person, and seek to embody a faith that is both grounded and growing—alive with hope, compassion, and justice.
Nursery, Infant-Age 2 (God’s Tots)
At our Nursery here at PUCC, your infants and toddlers are cared for by our loving staff. We make sure at least two trained adults are in the room at all times to ensure your precious ones are safe and loved during the worship service.
Additionally, the Nursery is also open for infants and children through 5th grade before worship each week from 9:00–10:00am and after worship from 11:15am–12:15pm on Sundays when we have a speaker or other need for extended care. During these times, to maintain a familiar, comforting environment, children will receive care from our regular nursery staff .
Children Ministry, Age 3-2nd Grade (Lil’ Chips)
This is the age at which we introduce concepts of God’s love and kindness toward others, building a strong foundation for our children’s spiritual growth.
Additionally, the Nursery is also open for infants and children through 5th grade before worship each week from 9:00–10:00am and after worship from 11:15am–12:15pm on Sundays when we have a speaker or other need for extended care. During these times, to maintain a familiar, comforting environment, children will receive care from our regular nursery staff .
Children Ministry, 3rd-5th Grade (Golden Graders)
Now that they’ve grown a little, we invite our children to learn about the Bible and our unique identity as the United Church of Christ. We help them begin developing a faith to guide them through all the phases of their life.
Additionally, the Nursery is also open for infants and children through 5th grade before worship each week from 9:00–10:00am and after worship from 11:15am–12:15pm on Sundays when we have a speaker or other need for extended care. During these times, to maintain a familiar, comforting environment, children will receive care from our regular nursery staff.
Youth Ministry, 6th-12th Grade (Loaded Taters)
For those in middle and high school, we go deeper into discerning and nurturing their faith identities so that they can participate in the mission of PUCC. Programs for our preteens and teens are designed to build strong bonds of friendship and to encourage our youth to take courageous action, guided by Christ and the Holy Spirit, answering God's call to create a more just world for all.
If you'd like to help or for more info, feel free to email me at gabriel@parkwayucc.org or Marsha Peek at marshapeek31@gmail.com
