Peace Dale Congregational Church

EDUCATION

Philosophy

The mission of good Christian educational program is to minister to the religious life of the child, youth, and adult. At Peace Dale Congregational Church we believe that education, both religious and secular, is vital to our faith. While biblical and theological grounding is essential, we aim to incorporate life events, social issues and experiences into all educational programs. At Peace Dale Congregational Church God's ministry and mighty acts are celebrated in story, worship and play. All adults and children are invited to attend our educational programs.

The Board of Christian Education develops and selects programs and curricula for our church with an aim to integrate the world of faith and our secular society. Our programs attempt to reflect Peace Dale Congregational Church's commitment to inclusively making sure all of God's children are welcome here. We hope to teach and share as active and passionate faith with all who pass through our door.

Curriculum

We will again be using the Bible Quest curriculum for grades K through 8. Bible Quest is a curriculum published by Congregational Ministries. It is based on four major themes within the Bible:
    - incarnation
    - covenant/relationship
    - liberation/justice
    - salvation
Bible Quest's objectives is to help all Christians connect with the Bible in such a way that it relates to their lives and life experiences. It illustrates to participants how to live in the world as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Safe Place Policy

We are firmly committed to give children and youth the chance to spiritually learn and grow in the safest and most secure environment we can provide. We want to ensure that children and youth can come to Christ at PDCC and be safe, honored, loved, and respected. As well we want parents to have full confidence in the adults that care for their children. Therefore, with God as our guide, the church commits to an organized and through process of volunteer/staff recruitment through the use of the following guidelines:

Whenever possible, there shall be at least 2 leaders at all youth and children events, including Sunday school retreats and special events.
It is strongly recommended that volunteers have a minimum of six months active participation in the church community.
Teachers and youth advisors are asked to fill out a screening form.
All participants in youth trips are required to abide by a covenant of behavior, which is drafted before each event.

Church School

Toddlers

Toddler care ids available for children 18 months to 4 years. This is a play-based program staffed by a paid Director and volunteers. The Director is CPR certified, and has experience and knowledge of child development in toddler age children. Infants are invited to stay with parents in the worship service. If necessary, parent and child can find a quiet space in the Children's Library/Junior Choir Room.

Pre School - 8th Grade

Our preschool aged children through grade 8 uses a Bible-story based curriculum, Bible Quest, to promote biblical knowledge and basic Christian values.

Youth Group

PDCC is truly blessed to have a large group of active and dedicated youth participating in our youth group programs. Led by a group of volunteers and Rev. Marybeth Marshall, youth groups provide fun and fellowship for all our youth. These groups are committed to offering an extravagant welcome to all interested youth.

Senior High Youth Group

The senior high youth are a vital part of our church community. They are involved in service and fundraising activities including mission trips, The Battle of the Bands, The Annual Chili Cook-Off, Sleep Out for Homelessness and Awareness, Ox fam Hunger Banquet and other activities throughout the year. The Senior High Youth Group is a dedicated and active group of individuals who serve as excellent representatives of our church.

Confirmation

Confirmation class at PDCC is offered for young men and women entering 10th grade. Led by Rev. Paul Bizer and an assistant, the class seeks to recognize confirmation as a significant right of passage in a young person's life as they move from childhood faith to an adult faith. elements of the class includes retreats, Bible study, church history, community building, community service and fun!

Adult

Adult education is offered throughout the year. There are weekly Bible study classes and periodic special programs. The music program encompasses all age groups from preschool to adult, solo instrumentals and hand bell choir.
Weekly Bible Study Meetings are:
- Wednesday 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm
- Thursday 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Vacation Bible School

For one week each summer the Board of Christian Education sponsors Vacation Bible School. The curriculum and theme change yearly, but the fun and enthusiasm never do. A group of dedicated volunteers teach Bible stories, arts and crafts, music and games in this half-day program. It is a time for fun, learning and fellowship for the adults and youth alike. Registration occurs in the late spring for children of preschool age through grade 4.

Peace Dale Congregational Church

United Church of Christ

261 Columbia Street, Peace Dale, RI 02879