At Holy Family, young people are honored as full participants in our church community, a vibrant family we lovingly call the #holyvillage. Children and youth serve actively in worship, leadership ministries, and outreach. In fact, our youth often lead their own parents into the mission field. They live out discipleship as a matter of the heart, listening to God’s call and responding whole-heartedly to love, serve, and listen to the marginalized, the hungry, and the poor.
All children and those who are “young at heart” are invited to come forward for a blessing as St. Francis Ministers near the end of the 10 AM Sunday worship service before going outside to spread birdseed for all God’s creatures. They will be accompanied by at least one adult. Children and youth serve as acolytes in nearly every worship service.
An older youth member serves on the vestry (church board) to represent the needs and concerns of young people. Holy Family purposefully engages in many intergenerational activities that offer support and energy to all who participate. Please contact the Director of Formation for access to the private children and youth webpage and Facebook group.
Cultivating a safe environment is essential for youth and adult formation and spiritual practice. Holy Family follows the Safe Church guidelines set forth by the Episcopal Church in the United States of America and the Episcopal Diocese of Indianapolis.
Holy Family Children’s Ministry & Youth Group
Childcare
Childcare is offered to children in first grade and younger during the first thirty minutes of Holy Family’s 10 AM worship service when volunteers are available. Childcare takes place in one or both of the early childhood classrooms near the parish hall and is determined by the age and number of children in attendance. Learn more HERE.
Sunday School
The Children’s Ministry Program at Holy Family (PreK-6th grade) shares the stories and values of our faith, encourages children’s curiosity through activities and interaction, and provides a caring community of service and support for them and their families. Children meet primarily during 9 AM Sunday School but also gather at additional times for fellowship and outreach projects.
Youth Group: At Holy Family, the Youth Group (7th-12th grades) is active during 9 AM Sunday School discussing weekly scripture, connecting as teens & pre-teens, and exploring faith as youth through their transitional years. Outside of the Sunday time, youth spend time doing outreach for the community, delve into the Daily Office of the Book of Common Prayer, and socialize through weekend gatherings and a summer mission trip.
Children and youth programs break for the summer to allow teachers a chance to renew themselves spiritually and spend time with their families.
Godly Play – Mrs. Tannas
Godly Play uses a Montessori-style approach to bring Bible stories to life. Children interact with wooden and felt figures that represent key biblical people and events, then dive into “wondering questions” to deepen their understanding.
Following the story, students explore the weekly theme through creative art projects and interactive centers. These hands-on centers offer a variety of options, including storybooks, audiobooks, games, music, puzzles, crafts, nature activities, and coloring sheets.
Disciples (Grades 2-6) – Teaching Team
This class uses Living the Good News, Sharefaith, Building Faith Brick by Brick, and official lessons provided by The Episcopal Church. Following the Revised Common Lectionary and core Bible stories, students engage with scripture by building scenes with Legos, crafting, and playing games. The program also explores the seasons of the liturgical year and prepares students for full participation in worship. Kids learn common prayers, practice reading hymnal music, and regularly visit the Pray Space to share their own prayers of intercession and thanksgiving. Above all, this class fosters a safe, welcoming environment where young people easily form lasting friendships.
Youth Group (Grades 7-12) – Teaching Team
Youth Group provides an open, affirming space where youth build personal relationships with God and each other. During 9 AM Sunday School, students explore scripture through the Echo the Story curriculum using storytelling, creative reflection, journaling, sketching, and conversation. The group regularly uses the Daily Office from the Book of Common Prayer and enjoys special lessons tied to church feast days and celebrations. Additionally, students are provided with the opportunity to be formed in the Anglican tradition, learning the basics of Episcopalian teachings that prepare Christians for Confirmation when they are eligible. Beyond Sunday mornings, monthly gatherings engage Youth Group students in teambuilding, service projects, and fellowship, while the annual summer mission trip serves as the highlight of the year.
Youth Group Mission Trips: Click for details.
Service Projects and Outreach
Students in all grade levels participate in a variety of outreach projects which vary from year to year. Some recent activities include Angel Tree, Birthday Cake Kits, and the yearly Angel Tree ministry.
Social Events
Students in all grade levels participate in age-appropriate social activities throughout the year including movie nights, nature walks, and lock-ins.
Heather Tannas, Godly Play Lead Teacher admin@hfec.org
Jolene Johnston, Director of Formation jjohnston@hfec.org