There are so many ways for children to be involved in the life of St. John's, learning, growing and building long-lasting friendships.
Babies through fifth graders are cared for in our beautifully renovated Child Care Center on the second floor, within easy reach of the chapel, nave and parish hall. Two- and three-year-olds engage in a Bible lesson during the 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. services. All Child Care Center staff are screened and trained in First Aid, CPR and Safeguarding God's Children. Nursing mothers can use a private and comfortable room in the Child Care Center to nurse. Contact Crystal Fernatt, child care coordinator, at crystal.fernatt@tapintohope.org with questions.
Sunday Mornings Whirl, used in Sunday School from the fall through spring, is a lectionary-based curriculum that helps kids see the connections between the Bible and their own lives and teaches children about the church seasons. Each lesson includes a Bible story, fun animated video, discussion and an engaging craft or activity. It gives families opportunities to discuss their faith together, as children and their parents learn about the same text each Sunday. Children leave class each week with a better understanding of the Bible and how to live out their faith, take-home activities, and discussion questions for the family. Holy Moly, used in Sunday School in the summer months, brings the stories of the Old and New Testaments to life with storytelling, an animated Bible story, discussion, and crafts that ignite kids’ creativity. The stories of the Bible come to life for kids with this vibrant curriculum, that encourages children to explore and wonder, imagine and reflect.
St. John's Music Academy The St. John's Music Academy is for children in grades K-5. Kids receive vocal/choral training, music theory, and experience with instruments and movement. There is no cost to attend. Rehearsals take place Wednesdays, 4:30-5:45 p.m. Contact Mike Milam, interim director of music, at mmilam@stjohnsroanoke.org.
Sunday Mornings Child Care Center open 8:30-11:30 a.m. 9:45 a.m. Children’s Chapel 10:00 a.m. Whirl Classroom (preschool - 5th grade)
Sunday Evenings Child Care Center open 4:30-7:30 p.m. 5 p.m. The Gathering Eucharist 5:45 p.m. Sunday Supper 6:30-7:30 p.m. Faith and Fun
At St. John’s, we are committed to children’s safety. We screen all volunteers who work with children with a complete criminal background check and provide training in Safeguarding God’s Children, the Episcopal Church’s program for recognizing and preventing child abuse.
CONTACT Christine Mortlock Minister to Children and Families cmortlock@stjohnsroanoke.org Look for our Facebook group, St. John’s Kids and Families!