Central United Church offers a midweek program and church school for children and youth in the downtown community of Windsor. We consider children and youth as important members of our church and strive to give them opportunities to be a part of our congregation. Through the integration of children and adults in worship and fellowship we become the whole people of God.
On Thursday evenings, Children and youth can learn how to play handbells as part of the " Joybells", led by Grace Lewis.
On Sundays, during worship, children and youth can be part of our church school. We use the " Whole People of God " curriculum which is lectionary based and intergenerational. This means that the church school uses the same scripture readings that are used in the worship service, as the basis of the class lessons. Part of the focus of this curriculum is the inclusion of children and youth into the life of the church and in worship. Special Sundays like Christmas and Easter are called intergenerational Sundays and the children participate in worship. Oh, by the way we also offer an adult church school (bible study) classevery Wednesday evening.
Children and youth are encouraged to participate in the life of the church outside of the congregation. Opportunities are made available for children and youth to attend summer camp at the Presbytery camp, Gesstwood and in attending youth forum at the annual London Conference meeting. EssexPresbyery also has a Youth Council that plans and runs activities for youth in the United Church.
Confirmation is offered to youth who wish to make a greater committment to theChurch. To prepare for confirmation, Central United offers a program for those wishing to be confirmed at Central United Church. This program is held as needed and has no set start time. For additional information, contact Rev. Craig.
At the beginning of worship every Sunday, children lead in worship. As acolytes, two children light the candles on the communion table and bring forward the bible that is placed on the pulpit. Youth also serve monthly in the role as ushers, welcoming people, offering them bulletins and collecting the offering.
Intergenerational Sundays occur at important times in the church year. Easter, Pentecost, Thanksgiving, Christmas are some of these. On these Sundays, Children join the adults in worship. Having children and adults worship together at significant times of the Christian Year helps all gain a better understanding of the meaning of what being a whole people of God is. For children who may get fidgety during the service , activity sheets suitable for their age are available for them to get and bring back to their seats.
Every Sunday, we have a nursery available for those under 3 years old. This is located on the second floor and a program is available for toddlers who are brought to the nursery
Central United provides activities for all members of our church family. We work at making sure that children and youth can participate in these activities.
Our annual June picnic is attended and enjoyed by all ages