“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them,
for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:4
CHILDREN AT ASCENSION
Wonder is at the heart of our children’s programming. Sometimes this word makes us think of that sense of surprise and amazement when we encounter something new or inspiring. Other times, wonder can be the act of being curious or asking a question. We believe that fostering a sense of wonder among our children will help prepare them for a lifelong faith journey. At Ascension, we strive to partner with parents and guardians to raise caring, generous, and loving children who are prepared for the challenges of growing up in a busy, noisy world.
We offer Sunday formation classes for children of all ages as well as programs throughout the year for children, parents, and families.
Due to ongoing concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic, formation offerings are currently online via Zoom. Check with your group leader or email Jordan Hammons for more information regarding formation offerings at this time.
CHILDCARE (NEWBORN - 4 YEARS)
Room 103 | Sundays (9:00 am - 11:30 am)
Children are always welcome in Ascension’s worship services! For any young children needing respite or play time, our nursery is staffed and welcoming. It is open from the beginning of Formation Hour through the end of the 10:15 worship service (9am-11:30am).
GODLY PLAY | PRE-K to 2ND GRADE or 4 - 8 YEARS
Designed with our youngest worshippers in mind, this space offers a hands-on approach to understanding the Bible through storytelling, wondering, and art. Rooted in Montessori educational philosophy, Godly Play encourages openness, discovery, community, and relationships. Some Godly Play stories are told during one week, while others are told across several weeks.
CELEBRATE WONDER | 3RD to 5TH GRADE or 9-11 YEARS
Built around a child’s sense of wonder, Celebrate Wonder offers experiential activities, spiritual practices, and reflection to help children build a rich spiritual life. By embracing and celebrating children, Celebrate Wonder is designed to help children grow into whole people, as well as being spiritually aware.
WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHILDREN
CHILDREN'S CHAPEL (PRE-K - 2ND GRADE)
Sundays during 10:15 a.m. service | Room #105
Children are welcome to join our Children’s Chapel by following the procession from the Nave during our 10:15 am service. Children’s Chapel is a child-centered service that allows younger children to more closely engage with the stories and patterns of our worship.
WORSHIP AND EUCHARIST (3RD GRADE & UP)
Sundays (during both services) | Nave
From 3rd Grade up, children are encouraged to stay in the worship service each Sunday and become active participants in the service—shown to be the greatest tool for faith formation. We love to see children in our worship services! For those children who may need some additional creative outlets during worship, visit our Creative Worship Center near the sound booth.
SERVING IN WORSHIP & EUCHARIST
(3rd Grade and up) | Scheduled in advance for Sunday
There are many ways to participate in our liturgy! Children can serve as acolytes, readers, and greeters. We love to see children in our worship service! For more information on participating in these roles, contact Jeanne Neill, our acolyte leader.
INTERGENERATIONAL WORSHIP SERVICE
First Sunday each month during 10:15 a.m. Service Room #105
Our intergenerational service follows the patterns of our 10:15 am service with fewer readings and the addition of some songs and prayers from Children’s Chapel. This service draws us all together in worship.