Christian Formation is a lifelong process by which we learn and grow in faith. St. Martin’s Episcopal Church offers a comprehensive program for students of all ages. Classes and events are broken down into the following ministries (descriptions follow):
Children’s Ministries (Infant - 6th grade):
- Nursery
- Children’s Worship
- Sunday School
- Special Events
Youth Ministries (7th & 8th Grade and High School):
- Sunday School
- Youth Groups
- Confirmation Class
Adult Ministries:
- Sunday School
- Inquirer’s / Confirmation Class
- Small Group Bible Studies
Ministry descriptions:
Children’s Ministries
St. Martin’s offers a variety of programs for our youngest members (infant through 6th grade.)
Nursery: A nursery is available for infants through 3-year old toddlers every Sunday. It is located in the Lower Laird, down the stairs to the right of the main lobby. Children in the nursery play with age-appropriate toys, hear stories, watch child-friendly videos and enjoy a small snack - all under the watchful eyes of responsible child care providers.
Sunday Nursery Hours:
September - May: 8:45 - 11:30 a.m.
June - August: 9:45 - 11:30 a.m.
Nursery service can also be provided for church meetings and parish events. If you are in need of special nursery services, please contact the church office at 636-227-1484 at least five days in advance to make arrangements.
Children’s Worship: This program is for kids ages 4-8 and takes place each Sunday during the 10:15 church service. A child crucifer leads the students from the procession in the sanctuary to the special Children’s Worship space in the Upper Laird. An adult leader and teen helpers greet the children and share an age-appropriate worship service. The group returns to the sanctuary at the time of the Peace to share the remainder of the service with their families.
Sunday School: Sunday school classes are offered for children every Sunday from 9 - 10 a.m. Our school year runs from September through May. All classes meet in the undercroft section of the basement (down the stairs near the coat closet). Volunteer adult teachers lead the children, using the lectionary-based “Living the Good News” Episcopal curriculum. Classes are divided into the following age groups:
- Preschool and Kindergarten
- Primary - 1st, 2nd and 3rd grades
- Intermediate - 4th, 5th and 6th grades
Special Events: Various special events are planned throughout the year for the children to help acquaint them with their church, socialize with each other and grow in their faith. Programs include church lock-ins, a traditional Christmas pageant and Easter week events. Please check the web site news and the bulletin boards for the latest information.
Youth Ministries
Youth ministries involve programs for 7th & 8th graders and high school students at St. Martin’s. Sunday school classes are offered every Sunday morning at 9 a.m. Our school year runs from September through May.
Middle School (7th & 8th grades) Sunday School: Volunteer adult teachers use the lectionary-based “Living the Good News” Episcopal curriculum to help these young adults better understand the weekly Bible lessons as well as develop their own faith. Class meets in the undercroft area of the basement (down the stairs near the coat closet).
Senior High (9th - 12th grades) Sunday School: Volunteer adult teachers lead the students, helping them learn more about the Episcopal Church while exploring their own spirituality through the “Journey to Adulthood” program. The high school class meets in the Senior High room in the Lower Laird (near the nursery).
Middle School Youth Group: Volunteer leaders and parents plan and oversee special events throughout the school year for this group. Events include an overnight retreat, outreach projects and social gatherings. Please check the bulletin boards and the web site news for upcoming events. Parental consent forms must be turned in before the youth can participate.
Senior High Youth Group: This group meets once a month under the supervision of volunteer adult leaders for community outreach and social events. The group also participates in working mission trips every other summer. Please check the web site news and bulletin boards for current event information. Parental consent forms must be turned in before the youth can participate.
Confirmation Class: Confirmation classes are open to all students 8th grade and higher. Classes are held during an 8-week period — please check the bulletin boards and the web site for dates for the next offering. St. Martin’s uses an Episcopal confirmation program for youth and adults called “I will, with God’s help.” The class culminates with a confirmation ceremony led by the Bishop.
Adult Ministries
The mission of St. Martin’s Adult Formation Committee is to develop educational programs for adults in our community that facilitate Christian formation, encourage spiritual growth and foster understanding of our church in the world.
Sunday School: Adult classes are offered every Sunday morning during the school year (September through May) from 9 - 10 a.m. The classes are held in Packwood Library and/or the Upper Laird. The classes are organized by St. Martin’s Adult Formation Committee. Please check the web site news and the bulletin boards for the latest program information.
Inquirer’s / Confirmation Class: St. Martin’s welcomes adults in its confirmation class to learn more about the Episcopal faith. Classes are held during an 8-week period — please check the bulletin boards and the web site for dates for the next offering. St. Martin’s uses an Episcopal confirmation program for youth and adults called “I will, with God’s help.” If you chose to become members of the Episcopal Church, the class culminates with a confirmation ceremony led by the Bishop.
Small Group Bible Studies: Bible study classes are held at various times and locations throughout the week. Please check the web site news, bulletin boards or call the office to find out current class times and locations.
The Diocese of Missouri also offers programs, including the “Education for Ministry” program. EFM is a program of theological education for laypersons developed by the University of the South (Episcopal) School of Theology. Typically groups of six to ten meet once a week for serious study of the Bible, church history, and how to find the holy in everyday life, in the Anglican tradition of scripture, tradition, and reason. For additional information contact, church office or call the church office at (636) 227-1484.
