Let The Children Come!

"Then little children were being brought to him in order that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples spoke sternly to those who brought them; but Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.' And he laid his hands on them and went on his way."
Matthew 19: 13-15

The Children and Youth Ministry at Middle Collegiate Church is committed to following the example set by Jesus in this passage. Like Jesus, we believe that children are special and we affirm their importance to God, the church and the world.

Our theme, "Let the Children Come" means, that as a ministry, we are committed to serving our youth in the following ways:

• Welcoming Children and Youth, just as they are!
• Teaching youth the values of Christian living.
• Integrating youth participation in all aspects of the
  church.
• Empowering youth for active involvement in
  community and world events.
• Providing programs that meet the needs of All youth.

These programs include:

• Imagine Youth Group
• LGBTQ Youth Support Group
• Hip-Hop and other dance
• Rites of Passage
• Children's Worship Theater
• Choirs
• After School Program

Middle Children will have many chances to
“catch faith” this year.

CREATIVE PLAY FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN

Beginning October 1st, children ages 7 and under will have creative play during the worship celebrations. Through song, dance and creative games they will have a safe and exciting place to play and learn while their parents worship in the sanctuary.

CHURCH SCHOOL FOR SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN

For elementary school aged-children we have a full agenda this year. Led by our multi-cultural team of leaders who are teachers and artists, these classes have been developed to actively engage our youth in our Middle vision.

Registration is October 1st and 7th (the first two classes).
They begin at 10 am, making them convenient for both worship celebrations. Please contact the church office for more information.

Fall – Life Lessons

• Friendship
• Forgiveness
• Acceptance
• Dealing with Peer Pressure
• Sharing
• Kindness
• Working through anger

Winter – Peacemaking/Conflict Resolution

• Specific Topics are being developed

Spring—Caring for the Earth

• Specific Topics are being developed

YEAR OF THE BIBLE CLASS FOR ALL YOUTH

We are offering a special class because this is the year of the bible. What is the bible? Who wrote it? Is it for real? How is it relevant to your life here in New York City?

This class begins October 1st. It starts at 10 am.
Please contact the church office for more information.

TEEN SPACE

Teen Time

• HIP-HOP DANCING
• GOSPEL SINGING
• A “TALK SHOW”

FREE FOOD AND DRINK

Sundays at 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Remember: BIBLE STUDY IN THE MORNINGS AT 10:00 AM

The new teens ministry gets a new “house” on our top floor that is their space—and decorated by them. Retreats, community service, creating videos and a newsletter, and participating in worship are just some of the things planned for Middle Youth this year.

We also are extending them a special invitation to join our congregation on our trip to New Orleans coming March!