Children, Youth, and Families
Welcome of Pentecost with Directors of Children and Youth programs, Jonathan Knock and Melinda Corey
Our commitment: Children Welcome!
During this time of the pandemic, St. Mark’s is not able to fully engage in our usual programming. However, we are able to meet in smaller groups and to engage in outdoor worship and activities, which you can find in the “Upcoming Events” and “Calendar” sections on our homepage.
Of course, children are always welcome at the indoor service on Sunday mornings at 10:15 (reservations required) but there is currently not specific programming for children during that service.
Please stay in touch with our Directors of Children and Youth programs, Jonathan Knock and Melinda Corey, for more information, and let them know if you’d like to be added to their email list for ongoing updates and resources. Phone: 207-649-6197 (Call or text is fine!) Email.
You can also stay in touch by joining our St. Mark’s Families Facebook Group.
We typically offer some type of programming 2-3 times/month (typically Sundays, but also might be on other days depending on the season) during the school year, and break for summer, as many children and families are traveling, at camp, etc. during summer break. We have a family-friendly area in our sanctuary with a carpet, toys, art supplies, book, and fidget toys, where families can sit comfortably together and play while they listen to the service, or where children/youth may take items to enjoy during the service, wherever they are sitting with their family.
As parents, we know we want our children to feel like they belong in church. We also want our children to feel comfortable and know “how to do church”. Our Family Eucharists several times each year help us all to remember ways of praying, and maybe perhaps why we do the things we do each Sunday. When we do our monthly service projects, we get to know one another more intimately and work towards a common goal. Below is a sampling of what you might expect for your children at St. Mark’s:
- Outreach projects like making cards for ill and home-bound community members
- Hands-on activities such as making Advent Wreaths, while learning about the symbols of preparation for Christmas
- Helping during services as ushers and greeters, while participating in the Eucharist and listening to the sermon
- Telling the stories of the Bible and reflecting together, as we learn together the great stories of our faith
- Reading and discussing books together over cocoa at our Middle School Book Club
Palm Sunday: The children scatter the palms as we tell the story of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem
Children with Father John
Children’s offering
More happy times at St. Marks!
