Christian Education

Adult Ministries
Adult educational ministries take place through small and large groups, organized classes, and events which are held throughout the year. Sunday morning adult ministries include Sunday School classes. Some are long term classes and others are short term, along with some more informal groups who meet following worship and then gather to share about their lives. The classes are open to all who want to learn more about their faith. A wide variety of mediums are used including: the Bible, books, video, music, and stories.

Wesleyan Class
The Wesleyan class is an open class where the people are willing to share their lives, their prayers, and encourage each other through life’s joys and struggles. It is here that biblical truth is put into action as people apply scriptural teaching to daily experiences. Whether you want to investigate Christianity in a safe environment, grow with other new Christians, or serve God with others, there is a chair open for you!

The class accomplishes their goals through discussion, book study, bible study, music, and teaching.

FaithLink Class
FaithLink deals with current issues that are facing people everyday. The material for this class is faxed in weekly. The issue of the day is described through historical, theological, biblical, and practical perspectives. Questions are raised which affect our national, international local and personal beliefs. Political, religious, and academic leaders are quoted in the material. The class discusses all of this, and each person draws their own conclusion. This is a challenging class which thinks through the “hot” issues of our day.

Disciple Class
Disciple Bible Studies (I-IV) are intense 32-week classes that help people grow in their love for God. If you want to increase in your faith through Bible study, prayer and fellowship, this ministry is designed for you. It will connect you with other Christians who are searching for more understanding of biblical history and meaning. The leadership for the group is provided by a seasoned staff who facilitate group discussions to create a safe environment for you to ask questions, explore your thoughts and ideas, and understand God’s words and meaning for your life.

Bible Studies:

See the "Small Groups" Section

Parenting Class:
Description being developed. Contact the church office for information (739-1943).


Children’s Ministries
We are committed to supplementing a parent’s efforts to build a spiritual foundation in their child’s life. Sunday School, Children’s Choir, Children’s Time at Sunday Worship, Children’s Church, Camping experiences at Aldersgate and Casowasco highlight just a few of the ministries available for children.

Sunday School is available for children from birth though adults. At the elementary through high school, classes are broken down by age groups and each class is led by caring and energetic leaders. There are classes for newborn, 2 and 3 year olds, 4 and 5 year olds, 1st and 2nd grade, 3rd and 4th grade, and 5th and 6th grade, junior high and senior high.

We offer a place where caring adults offer a safe environment for your children during Sunday School. It is a fun place filled with high-energy music, skits, crafts, and bible based stories and activities. Snack time is a very important part of class to the students and the teachers to share together!

Sunday School is where bible stories are shared and the students learn how to integrate it in their lives. Our staff realizes that building relationships with children is an important part of teaching our faith. Together they are committed to helping children understand that God loves them all the time.

Children’s Church
Children’s church is offered to children ages 4-7 during the 10:45 worship service beginning immediately following Children’s Time in worship. The children will experience God’s love through activities in a safe and nurturing environment.
Nursery
The nursery is offered to children ages newborn to age 4 during Sunday School and the 10:45 worship service. The staff is extremely caring and sensitive to children’s needs. Parents have open access to their children at any time, and this is a safe place where children can play, share a snack, and interact with others while allowing you to focus on your own faith journey!

Summer Camp

Camp is open to children and youth ages 5 to 18. Casowasco and Aldersgate mix summer’s favorite activities into one incredible weeklong experience that children and youth will never forget. The skits, water activities, crafts, games, bible studies, and friendships are essential ingredients in making camp a great summer highlight!


Teens Ministries
Where Christian Faith and real life converge through a bible-based program that helps Middle School, and High School students experience God’s love and expand their understanding of Christ’s relevance on their daily lives.

Sr. High Class (10th, 11th, and 12th grades)
The Sr. High class is currently using a student led curriculum that explores everyday issues that teen’s experience, contrasting it with biblical teachings. They have small group discussions, journals, and other activities to learn how to handle these issues in their lives. Here they find the ingredients of support, encouragement, and acceptance through building close relationships with each other and with the leaders who reinforce the Christian faith. They develop a spiritual attitude and life.


Jr. High Class (7th and 8th grade) - This year is Confirmation!
The Confirmation Class is the process of being received into membership of the United Methodist Church. This class spends time examining the history of the United Methodist Church along with the contemporary church. They visit churches of other denominations, and then decide for themselves whether they want to become a member of First United Methodist Church in Horseheads. Commitment, mentoring, and learning are all part of this experience. A special mentor is chosen for each student so they might have a personal experience in faith sharing as they decide to commit to membership.

In addition the Jr. High Class is dealing with everyday, real issues that youth are facing at home, in school, and with their peers. The conflicts of trying to meet parental and personal expectations, handle responsibilities, and fit in all at the same time are challenges for youth. They work through the art of balancing all this, and learn how their faith can be supportive and caring. This class prepares them to learn how to make long lasting faith decisions.


Youth Group (7th grade – 12th grade)

Youth Group consists of great music, upbeat leaders, and lots of fun. It generates an atmosphere of excitement and encouragement and creates a place to connect with God and friends. God’s word is taught through a variety of activities through out the year such as Kingdom Bound, Work Camp, games, bible study, music, etc.

Summer Camp
Camp is open to children and youth ages 5 to 18. Casowasco and Aldersgate mix summer’s favorite activities into one incredible weeklong experience that kids will never forget. The skits, water activities, crafts, games, bible studies, and friendships are all essential ingredients in making camp a great summer highlight!

Horseheads First United Methodist Church
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