Church of the Holy Comforter | September 18, 2024

Sunday School starts this week!

11:10 a.m.–Noon; Beginning This Sunday, Sept. 22


We are excited for the start of the new Sunday School year this Sunday! Our programs for children ages 4 years through 6th grade are designed to provide developmentally-appropriate and child-centered Christian education and a loving, supportive community for young people and their families. If you haven't registered your kids yet, you can do so HERE. We'll meet from 11:10 to noon (after the 10 a.m. service). Please check the Narthex table for locations.

And parents, after dropping off your kids, be sure to check out our new parent lounge on the 3rd floor to find parenting books and resources, a phone charger, coffee, and opportunity for fellowship with other parents. See you on Sunday!

  • Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (Pre-K/Kindergarten): This beautiful Montessori-based program focuses on the three truths about Jesus - Jesus knows you, loves you and is always with you. We begin to learn about the seasons and celebrations of the church year through stories, lessons, and crafts.
  • Godly Play (1st through 4th grades): Godly Play is centered around imaginative telling of sacred stories, with follow-up interaction and activities allowing the kids to respond and learn from them. Our first grade curriculum also includes a seven-week Study of the Holy Eucharist program, led by parish ministry volunteers.
  • Faith in Action (5th/6th grades): Our pre-teens are empowered to serve and learn together in active and engaging ways, including packing food for FACETS; work with guest mentors to explore prayer, wellness, service to others, care for God's creation and more; and review of core faith stories and their relationship to our lives. At the end of the year we create micro-businesses and hold a Market Day to raise funds for our parish ministry partner Five Talents.

Children's Chapel

At the 10 a.m. Sunday service, our younger parishioners meet together in the Chapel during the Gospel and sermon to read a book together and worship using simple prayers and songs. As the year progresses we’ll also include some age-appropriate hands-on learning about our worship and liturgy. Our books and sharing are oriented towards kids ages 3 through 2nd grade, but all ages (and older helpers) are always welcome.

NEW! Young Families Open Circles Group

We are excited to offer a new opportunity for families with young children (ages 5 and under) to gather together regularly for fellowship, prayer, and fun.


Our new Open Circles group for young families will meet this fall in the Lillian Croy room beginning this Sunday, Sept. 22 from 12:15 to 2 p.m. and will continue on Oct. 27, Nov. 24, and Dec. 15.

The group will share a potluck lunch and a book or Bible study and discussion, with time for relaxation and fellowship. Childcare will be provided for all sessions, and the first lunch (pizza, salad, and dessert) is on us! If you have older kids as well, they are welcome to join. Contact Susan McGuire if you are interested or would like more information.

SAVE THE DATE: Special Events

Oct. 12 - 2nd Saturday Church & Dinner

5 p.m.

We gather once a month in the Chapel for an informal Eucharist followed by dinner, fellowship and fun for all ages. Our service is accompanied by lively music (guitar, banjo, violin). Prayers, sermons, and readings are shorter and often have an interactive component. Children are invited to serve as ushers, greeters or acolytes. Families, couples, singles, kids—all are welcome!

2nd Saturday Church on Oct. 12 will have a Hogwarts theme!

We extend a special invitation to our Hogwarts Vacation Bible School friends to join us for faith, fellowship, and a touch of magic for all ages (and houses)! Please RSVP HERE for dinner.

Oct. 20 - A Journey through Children's Formation at HoCo

11:15 a.m. –Noon

In this interactive session, we'll take an in-depth look at our Sunday School curriculum and related programs for preschool and elementary-aged children (up to 6th grade). Discover the developmental stages and learning goals we've set for each age group and how they build on one another to support our children's growth. We'll also delve into the holistic nature of our programs, which include worship for all ages, outreach and service opportunities, and programs to foster a supportive Christian community for kids and families.


Oct. 27 - Pumpkin, Potluck, and Prayer*

12:15 p.m.

Families, couples, singles, friends! Join us for this seasonal gathering, starting with the carving and decorating of our Halloween pumpkins followed by prayer over a BBQ and potluck dinner. We will provide the BBQ and drinks, but please bring a dessert if your last name begins with A–M or a salad if your last name begins with N–Z. Bring your own pumpkin, and carving supplies. Prizes for most creative and scariest pumpkins!


Nov. 17 - The Sunday Struggle: Making Time for Faith

11:15 a.m. –Noon

Life happens and—especially when you have kids—it doesn't slow down on Sunday mornings. Join our parent panel as they share practical strategies and personal experiences on how to stay connected with our faith community and make meaningful decisions about church attendance, even when life keeps them from Sunday church. Learn how to maintain and nurture the spiritual life of your family amidst the challenges of a busy schedule.


Dec.1 - All-Parish Advent Wreath Making

11:15 a.m. –Noon

Prepare for Advent with an intergenerational festive gathering following the 10 a.m. service. Bring greens to share (pine, holly, magnolia leaves, or other evergreens), along with pruners or shears if you have them. A $15 donation per wreath will help cover additional supplies. We'll also provide a selection of weekly prayers to accompany your wreath. All ages are welcome!


Dec. 8 - Gingerbread Extravaganza*

12:15 p.m.

‘Tis the season for gingerbread fun! All ages are invited for lunch and gingerbread house decorating. We will supply pre-constructed gingerbread houses and decorating supplies, plus pizza, salad and holiday tunes. A suggested donation of $20 per gingerbread house will help make sure we have gingerbread, icing and candy for everyone's creations. Get ready to unleash your creativity and celebrate the season!


*NOTE: These events are AFTER the Sunday School/education hour.

Learn More About Holy Comforter's Children's Ministries