WE WELCOME CHILDREN
"People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these...And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them." -Mark 10:13-16
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Sunday School is held in McNary Center at 9:00AM for children under 13 years of age. It meets only during weeks when the public schools are in session. Call Ms. Sylvia Kelly at 518-758-6137 to find out more about Sunday School classes.
If you have a teen preparing for confirmation, speak to Father Tom to arrange for classes. Breastfeeding mothers need not feel compelled to leave mass during feedings. Scroll down for some helpful hints on how to guide our youngest members. It is sometimes said that children are the future of the Church. They are not. From the moment they are brought into the family of God in relationship to Christ Jesus, from the moment of their baptism, they are fellow worshipers, brothers and sisters. For them, as for us, there will never be a time when our relationship with Jesus Christ stops growing. Children, teens, and adults alike need to learn more and more about the God who loves and saves us by sending his only Son, and who prepares us for eternal life through the gifts of their Holy Spirit poured out through the Church. Study, mentoring, discipleship, and mutual accountability take different forms at different ages, but they are for all. Attending church and listening to a brief sermon once a week (or less often) does not promote a deep, rich, satisfying relationship with anyone, let alone God. Parents and other significant adults are children's first and most influential teachers. What they see modeled is what they will learn, all good other good intentions and teaching to the contrary. We therefore emphasize the importance of encouraging all children to remain in church for the entire service. In order to help this happen, we offer a children’s church- an interactive experience during part of the 10am morning worship service. Children begin worship with the congregation, and then from the Gospel reading to the passing of the peace they have an optional children's church (for all children under the age of 13). Here, children pretend play as acolytes, ushers, and readers, engage in faith reinforcing games, and participate in worship in kid-friendly ways. Children's Church is taught by several adult volunteers. All volunteers must go through background checks and participate in the diocesan recommended training program for keeping churches safe. Helpful Hints
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