Christian Education Course Catalog
2007 - 2008

Youth Program

The Youth Program at St. Mark’s is divided into two principle stages. Both the start and the finishing point of the program is determined primarily by a child’s grade level rather than their chronological age but exceptions can be made.

Beginning at age 3˝, children enter the Catechesis program which follows the established curriculum of The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. The program is Montessori based and uses a broad range of manipulatives, many of them beautifully hand crafted of natural materials, to teach and consider the lessons of the New Testament. The children in this level are divided into two Atriums, one for the three years before a child enters first grade, and the second for grades 1–3.

The second level for youth in grades 4–12 is taught functionally using the same technique described in the introduction to the Adult Program called Functional Christian Education. At this point the children are better able to reflect on their own experience, and are often more likely to engage in an experiential process rather than a fully didactic one. In addition to Bible stories and func ed, service projects are emphasized.

Sunday School Mission Statement

St. Mark’s Sunday school seeks to nurture the spirituality of each child, teach them the lore of the church, encourage them to question and investigate, provide a safe place where they can share their concerns, and prepare them to become mature and thinking Christians dedicated to lives of justice and mercy with compassion toward those who are weak and vulnerable..

Back to School Night

Find out more about your child’s Sunday school classroom and meet the teachers. Monday, October 22, 7:30 – 9:00 PM.

Banner Sunday/Youth Sunday

June 1

Sunday School Program

Dates & Time: September 9 – May 18, Sundays 10:00 AM. to 10:45 AM.; No Sunday School November 25, December 23 + 30, January 6, March 23 (Easter), March 30 (Annual Meeting)

Location: The Undercroft

Nursery (Newborn to 3˝ Years)

Nursery care is provided during both the 9:00am and 11 :15am services by paid caregivers. They are an experienced and nurturing staff that work lovingly with the children. The nursery is designed to be a welcoming, safe, and comfortable space for infants up to 3 –1/2 years. Pagers are available for parents so they will always be close at hand. Several social events are held during the year for nursery families including All Hallows Eve, Christmas and a spring get-together.

Coordinators: Deborah Cunningham, Catherine Dargan, Peter Phelps, Suanna Bruinooge, Coordinator
Location: Undercroft

Catechesis I (3˝ to 6 Years)

In the pre-school class children hear the stories of Jesus‚ life, explore the parables, and learn about some elements of the Eucharist. We offer children many opportunities to simply be in love with God through Jesus, and help them deepen that relationship in many ways.

Classroom A
Coordinators: Sallie McElrath, Jerry McKenzie, David Shaw
Location: Undercroft

Classroom B
Coordinators: Donna Moran, Matt Dodge, Lisa Kai
Location: Undercroft

Catechesis Program Coordinator: Mary Jo Detweiler

Catechesis II (6 to 9 Years)

In the primary grades, children are given opportunities to explore the loving relationship with God begun during Catechesis I. Children are introduced to parables and more complicated issues, learn about how the apostles spread the word of Jesus, and can deepen their understanding of the Eucharist. The children plan their own services, including prayers, readings, and song.

Leaders: Stephanie Deutsch, Terry Adlhock, Donna Sabino
Location: Undercroft
Catechesis Program Coordinator: Mary Jo Detweiler

Middle School (Grades 4 to 5)

The curriculum includes stories from the Hebrew Scriptures. The leaders encourage children to reflect on what is happening in their lives, the choices they face, and what comes into play as they make big and small decisions.

Leaders: Tracy Councill, Mary Lee and Reed Watts, David Talbird; Matt Ossolinski, supervisor
Location: Library in Undercroft

Junior High (Grades 6 to 8)

Classes will center on discussions about the concerns, issues, and pressures in the lives of young teens. Students will continue to explore the Bible and Episcopal traditions. New materials and resources will be used to consider these themes and issues in the context of the greater world, including other cultures and religions.

Leaders: Ben Schaibly, Sharon Oliveri, Becky Smalley; Bruce and Jane Sherman, supervisors
Location: Gregory Room, Baxter House

Senior High (Grades 9 to 12)

This class combines a continuation of functional education, Bible study, service learning, and theological discussion for older teens. The class aims to provide a safe space for senior teens to explore issues arising from their emerging maturity.

Leaders: Doug Ammon, Leslie Allen, Eric Burneson, Sian Jones, Sis McKay; Marlane Liddell, supervisor
Location: Baxter House Basement, back room

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