Aldersgate United Methodist Church has a very active Education Ministry offering all ages opportunities to learn the word of God and to discover its meaning. Our mission is to continually provide ways for all to gain knowledge of Jesus Christ and to provide ways for all to fully develop their spiritual gifts and talents. Together, these become an awesome basis for serving the Lord.
Aldersgate UMC extends the teachings of Jesus Christ through Sunday School Classes, related activities, Bible studies, and fellowship for all ages. Examples of what is offered include:
Adult Education Ministry — Sunday mornings provide a convenient time to meet for an hour in the name of the Lord. Discussion over a cup of coffee and a Bible results in shared moments and remembered lessons. Classes are from 9:40-10:40 A.M. and are diverse in topic and age groups (college-age to senior citizens). There’s one for you!
For those who want in-depth study, Disciples classes start in the Fall and last 30-34 weeks. This small-group study provides participants detailed instruction and creates a close bond among its members.
Youth Ministry — Youth members, (those in grades 7-12), meet for Sunday School classes in the morning in the Youth Building and again on Wednesday nights. Planned activities are ongoing to enrich their spiritual relationship with God and fellowship with each other.
Children’s Ministry — Sunday morning classes are offered for toddlers through the sixth grade. Teachers provide a loving and caring atmosphere as they share lessons, teach prayers, and help the children create crafts. The Children’s area sponsors events throughout the year to involve the youngest church members and their families. These include Rally Sunday when they are promoted to the next Sunday School class, receive attendance pins, certificates, and third graders are presented Bibles. The Christmas Program provides an opportunity for them to praise the Lord in song and program.
The sixth graders spend nine months in Confirmation classes and celebrate their membership with a special worship service in May. During the year, they travel to other churches to worship, enjoy spiritual lock-ins, volunteer (such as Ronald McDonald’s House) and raise funds for the Heifer Project and Crop Walk.
Children’s Church — Children’s Church allows children four years old thru 2nd grade to continue learning while their parents attend worship service. Children are led from the sanctuary after the Children’s Sermon to an area setup to conduct sessions with crafts, music, prayer, and teachings.
Vacation Bible School — All church members and guests from the community are invited to attend Vacation Bible School, held for a week during the summer. An adult class is offered along with classes for children 3 years of age through 5th grade. The sessions start with a meal and the week ends with a program of music and messages.
Nursery — Open on Sunday mornings from 8:15 A.M. to noon, the nursery accepts infants from birth through 4 years of age.
Family — The family ministry plans programs to strengthen the family unit. Parenting, grief counseling, single parenting and family communications are examples of studies offered to help the members of families cope with the efforts of daily living. Another area of this ministry focuses on celebrating with church family. For example, Palm Sunday offers an afternoon of fun activities for the entire family as well as the Fall Festival in October
Fellowship — The congregation comes together to enjoy fellowship during covered dish luncheons where everyone can bring their favorite foods for all to share. Some are scheduled on the fifth Sunday of each month that has 5; others are planned in conjunction with special events. The lunches begin after the 11 A.M. worship service.
Weeknight Studies
Disciple Bible Series — Long-term weekly Bible study in small groups, with video introductions by Biblical scholars and lively discussions, and weekly assigned readings. Studies usually begin in August or September.
Women on Monday — A weekly study for women about women’s issues. Bible based, with much discussion and weekly readings. Mondays at 7:00 P.M.
The Power of Faith Study — A weekly Bible study that focuses on the role and power of faith in the daily living. Wednesdays at 6:00 P.M.
Nursery available for children ages 0-5 during worship services and for all ages during weeknight Bible studies.
