St. Martin’s Episcopal Church

A Beacon of Christ’s Love, Spirit Fed, Serving Others

Christian Formation

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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).

For more information on any of our programs, please contact Interim Christian Formation Director Janis Greenbaum.

Children’s and Youth Ministries:
- Nursery
- Children’s Worship
- Sunday School
- Youth Group
- Confirmation Class
- Special Events

Adult Ministries:
- Sunday School
- Inquirer’s / Confirmation Class
- Small Group Bible Studies

Ministry descriptions:

Children’s and Youth Ministries
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 through 2nd grade
- 3rd through 6th grade
- 7th through 12 grade

Youth Group: This group meets at least once a month under the supervision of volunteer adult leaders for community outreach, social and faithseeking events.  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.

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.

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 Adult Classes: Adult classes are offered every Sunday morning during the school year (September through May) from 9 – 10 a.m. The classes are held in the Upper Laird and 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, reaffirmation and reception 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.