Bethany Christian Church

Children's Ministries

"The future of the world is and will continue to be influenced by the work of our ministry as empowered by the Holy Spirit."

As the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) we are called to nurture and minister to children, to receive the ministry of children, and to minister with children.

Sunday School Classes

Age-appropriate Sunday School classes are provided for nursery, two-year-olds, pre-schoolers, and elementary schoolers.

Other Sunday Sessions

Godly Play is a program for 4 yr. olds through 5th grade and is a program that offers a creative, child-honoring way of entering into and experiencing the biblical story. In Godly Play, we play with the language of God and God's People: our sacred stories, parables, liturgical actions and silence. Through this powerful language, through our wondering, through the community of players gathered together, we hear the deepest invitation of all: an invitation to come play with God. This approach was developed and classroom tested for over 25 years by Dr. Jerome Berryman, teacher, author and Episcopal priest. It is currently being used in churches of many denominations throughout the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Godly Play occurs each Sunday during Service.

Pastor’s Class is offered each year prior to Easter to help youth understand and consider making a Confession of Faith to Jesus Christ. It is open and available to all children in the fourth grade and older. Those who do make that commitment are usually baptized at the Easter Morning Service.

Other Activities

Vacation Bible School
One of Bethany’s best-known ministries in the community is Vacation Bible School (VBS). VBS is a memorable week of fun and learning, usually held in July of each year. Children ages three through fifth grade participate in creative Bible study, singing, arts and crafts, and mission projects. The week culminates in a family night supper with a music program presented by the children.
Butterfly Picnic
Held on the Saturday before Easter in conjunction with the Bethany Christian School, this event celebrates the Easter story and includes a traditional Easter Egg Hunt.
Summer Camp
A three-day “Discovery Camp” (with parental attendance permitted) is available for children leaving grades three through five. This camp, held at the Disciples Conference Center in Gonzales, Texas, prepares the children for the full youth camp program that starts after the sixth grade.
Children’s Choirs
Children learn church songs and have an opportunity to participate in the Sunday worship service through the Joy Choir and the Alleluia Choir.