AWANA
An interactive Bible ministry for children age 3 through eighth grade, AWANA provides a time of Bible learning and Scripture memorization in a club format, rewarding accomplishments and progress throughout a systematic study of the Bible at the children's level. Olympic-style games provide a fun time for learning team concepts as well as developing individual skills. During the learning portion of each evening, children find guidance through a carefully planned program of Bible memorization that they can easily apply to their everyday lives. As they progress in their study, they achieve recognition symbols they may add to a uniform shirt. Children progress to new levels when they accomplish various steps in the learning path. Snack provided.
The age groups for the AWANA program are as follows:
- Cubbies--ages 3 & 4
- Sparkies—grades kindergarten through 2nd
- T & T—grades 3 through 6th
The AWANA Clubs meet Wednesday nights from 6:00 – 7:30 during the normal school year (September through April). All sessions are supervised by trained personnel. To join or ask additional questions, please contact the church office at 724-962-4601 and speak with Pastor Harley Williams.
Jr. Choir & Little Lights
These special groups meet weekly at the conclusion of the 10:30 teaching hour, learning worship songs with small dramatic interpretations for use as a ministry tool during worship services. Children learn Bible lessons within the music/songs instruction and learn Bible verses that apply to the music used. In addition to participating in our worship services, the children have opportunities to be part of community outreaches by singing for events in our area. Jr. Choir is open to boys and girls 2nd through the 6th grade. Little Lights are 3 year olds through 1st grade.
SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHING HOUR
Instructors lead children through a systematic study of God’s Word and guide them to apply its principles in practical ways in their lives. Classes are offered during the 9:30 teaching hour for preschool children through grades 5-6. In the 10:30 teaching hour classes are offered for those in grades 1-4 during the regular worship service. Teachers work together in small group settings with the children, offering hands-on instruction and creativity periods. As part of this instruction time, children are encouraged to be part of our STAR program which meets from 10:15 – 10:30 each week. It’s here that children spend time learning important Christian basics such as memorizing the Books of the Bible, learning the 10 Commandments and other important Biblical selections. This reward program supplements the lessons taking place during the surrounding Sunday School/teaching hours.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Vacation Bible School is an annual highlight to provide children from age 3 through 6th grade an opportunity to participate in an all-out summer blitz of fun, contests, crafts, and Bible story instruction. Classroom teachers decorate their rooms to fit the theme of the week and guest appearances by characters make for a great week of fun and learning. Modern worship songs are used to accentuate the week’s theme. Throughout the week the boys and girls learn of a special missions outreach in need of financial support and compete to see which group can bring the most money for offering that week. Past projects include the building of a church in Kenya, sending short-term mission representatives to Chile and Jamaica, as well as other worthwhile ventures.
The week concludes with a free Kids' Carnival complete with all types of games (including a dunking tank!) and carnival goodies. Children may earn tokens throughout the week for various accomplishments as well as from participation in the carnival games. These games are centered on various Biblical themes and require participation through answering Bible questions. There are drama presentation breaks for a look at Bible story characters as well. The tokens are then exchanged for a wide range of toys provided by various donors. Local fire and emergency departments provide a special hands-on experience with their vehicles and equipment for the children making the day a special learning time as well.