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!
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