Education

Kids' Club at MAPC

Every Wednesday afternoon from October through April, children in grades K-8 gather at Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church (MAPC) for a very special program called Kids’ Club. It is an afternoon of singing, learning about the Bible, building friendships and playing games. At the end of the evening, children and their families enjoy a meal together with the pastoral staff. Children are welcome for all or any part of the program. Kids’ Club at MAPC is one of the ways the congregation fulfills its promise at baptism to raise the children of this community in the knowledge and love of God.

Gathering Together (4-4:15 pm)

Children are served refreshments in the Parish Hall.

Youth Choir (4:15-5 pm)

The Youth Choir is under the direction and leadership of Andrew Henderson. Children are taught to sing anthems by Bach, Handel, Mendelssohn and others. These biblically based works glorify God and remind us of the promises God made to his people and fulfilled in Jesus Christ. These songs will remain with the children for the rest of their lives. The Youth Choir sings during the 11:15 am worship service from October to May, approximately once every six weeks. The choir also occasionally performs at the James Lenox House, a home for retired persons, located adjacent to the church.

Parents’ Bible Study (4:15-6 pm)

Parents gather in the Parish Hall for a small group Bible study.

Recreation (5-5:30 pm)

The children enjoy a time of fun and games led by a seminary student on staff part-time at MAPC. The emphasis is on games that build teamwork, mutual respect and good sportsmanship. Alternatively, children may gather in the Parish Hall to do homework if they wish.

Learning About God (5:30-6 pm)

The Rev. Dr. Fred R. Anderson, Pastor of MAPC, and other members of the pastoral staff teach the children’s Bible class. The children get to know Dr. Anderson and develop relationships with the other ministers, learning about God’s grace as revealed in the themes, events and books of the Bible. They also learn about the elements of Reformed worship and are trained as crucifers and acolytes for Sunday worship services.

Family Dinner (6-6:30 pm)

The children join their parents and the ministers for a supper prepared by kitchen staff in the Parish Hall. This is a time for sharing in fellowship and thanksgiving with the church family.