The Children's Abbey

 

The Children's Abbey - The unique Sunday school program of the Congregation of Saint Saviour.

Email childrensabbey@saintsaviour.org for more information.

The mission of the Children’s Abbey is to teach the children ages three to twelve the Judeo-Christian tradition through religious ritual, story telling the medieval arts and exploration of the sacred spaces of the Cathedral.

Children's Abbey is not merely a "Sunday School" but a full-fledged Christian community for children (age 3-12) and their families. The program provides a traditional Christian education, with an emphasis on the Jewish roots of Christianity as well as respect for all faith traditions. Many children are from interfaith and non-traditional. families. Francesca, along with the  the volunteer teaching staff, have committed to maintaining a safe space in which all may feel thoroughly welcome!  Volunteers are needed and welcomed.  

Each Sunday begins with a Worship Service and the ringing of  the Abbey Bell, allowing  the children to enter into a sacred space.  There is hymn-singing, a candle-lighting ritual and prayers (formal and spontaneous!) After prayers, a Bible story is read, followed by a creative response utilizing the visual arts, writing, music, dance, drama or a service project. Free play, conversation and fellowship over the snack table foster the friendships that make Children's Abbey a genuine community and not merely a "class."

Children join the adult congregation for Communion and are free to sit with their parents or remain in the special, reserved Children's Abbey seats with their teachers.