St. James the Less Christian Education – Special Programs and Celebrations
First Holy Communion Class
First grade boys and girls prepare for the Sacrament of Holy Communion for six weeks in the spring. Once a week, we meet to explore the mystery of the Eucharist. Children begin to understand the foundations of their faith and familiarize themselves with Episcopal liturgy. The class culminates in a beautiful all-parish service where first graders partake in Holy Communion for the first time.
Confirmation Class
Young people in the 8th grade are invited to participate in preparation
for the Sacrament of Confirmation. In the spring, eighth graders meet for eight weeks to explore their Episcopal faith and reaffirm their baptismal vows. Fellowship, friendship and community are all part of this special class for young people. The class culminates with a visit from the Bishop and the special service for confirmation.
Junior and Senior Youth Group
We are blessed to have two youth groups: Our Junior Youth Group for young people in grades 6th through 8th; and our Senior Youth Group for teens 8th grade and up. The Youth Groups are organized by parents and meet once a month on a Sunday evening. The group shares in a dinner, devotion and activity. In the past, activities have included movie nights, bowling parties and field trips. The Senior Youth Group takes part in a monthly Midnight Run and is currently planning a mission trip.
Youth Sundays
One Sunday a month is designated as Youth Sunday. Young people read the lessons, serve as ushers and contribute to the Liturgy. Younger children may recite a prayer they have learned, older children may put on a short play. All children contribute to the service in a special way
Special Celebrations
We are blessed to have a intergenerational congregation. In every Church season there are opportunities to celebrate together.
During Advent, we join together to make beautiful Advent wreaths made out of fresh balsam and colorful ribbons.
At Christmas, all children are invited to participate in the Christmas Pageant, as we joyously tell the story of the birth of Christ.
In the beginning of the New Year, the Feast of the Epiphany is celebrated. We mark the Twelfth Day of Christmas and the journey of the Three Wise Men with hymns and a special procession. Afterwards, parishioners gather for a festive reception.
During the season of Lent, we create our own Pascal candles. On Good Friday, The high school students present “The Mime” . The Mime is a Silent, Narrated presentation of the Stations of the Cross which has been faithfully reenacted for over eighty years at Saint James the Less.
The Feast of the Ascension is celebrated in the late spring with a service and pot luck supper. The school year ends with Graduation Sunday and all parish reception. We are a true parish family that supports one another through the Church seasons.
Community Service
Being a Christian means sharing and bearing responsibility for those who need our help. Throughout the year, Church school children organize bake sales, car washes and food drives for our community and world mission projects. Saint James the Less youth participate in a monthly Midnight Run and Breakfast Run. The parish collects food for a local food pantry throughout the year.
Friendship Table
Church School doesn’t end in the summer! All young people in grades
pre-school through fifth grade are invited to join in the fun. Young people hear a biblical lesson and participate in a craft or activity. The class gathers in the Children’s Library at 10:00 and join their parents at the time of Holy Communion.