Children’s Ministries
Nursery is offered to infants and children through age 4, Sundays from 7:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
We strive to provide a safe, warm, and unconditionally loving environment for the children entrusted to our care. We offer stories, activities, and snacks, and when the weather permits, children will enjoy our outdoor play area.
Our nursery is staffed by Safe Church trained and CPR and first aid certified workers who care about the needs of each child. The nursery is located in Holy Cross Academy, next to our main building. A door code is needed to enter the Holy Cross Academy building. Ushers, greeters, and the children’s ministries coordinator can provide the code.
Christian Formation Classes for children ages 3 years through 5th grade are Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. Our curriculum, Grow, Proclaim, Serve, is first and foremost a Bible study where our children will hear the Bible story, apply the Bible message, and then learn to live out the message in their lives in concrete and age-appropriate ways. Christian formation classes are held every Sunday from September through May with a few exceptions.
Classes meet at Holy Cross in room 106 The Children’s Chapel.
Vacation Bible School is held every summer for preschoolers and children through 5th grade. Children explore God’s love through prayer, music, games, crafts, and snacks. Parents are encouraged to participate, and youth in grades 6 through 12 are encouraged to join in as leaders. Dinner is provided.
First Communion Every year, a priest-led class is offered to help children understand and respond to the Eucharist.
Movin’ On Up: The transition to middle school is different for everyone. No matter what kind of middle school, one thing remains the same about this important step up: it’s a chance for adventure and a time to start with a clean slate. At Holy Cross, middle schoolers become part of the youth group. What is our youth group all about? Come find out! We will invite all 5th graders to participate in Movin’ On Up, where they will explore what next year and beyond offers them at Holy Cross.
Opportunities to Serve
Acolytes: Children (3rd grade and up) and youth are invited to be trained to acolyte at any of our services. Acolytes are boys and girls who assist with church services, with duties including lighting and extinguishing candles, carrying crosses during the processions, and helping our priests prepare the Eucharist. Training takes place as needed throughout the year. For more information, contact the church HolyCross@holycrossep.org
Children and Youth Sunday: For one Sunday service in the spring, our children and youth take on all responsibilities of the service, including ushering, reading, playing music, singing, and even preaching. Sign-up sheets will be posted, and practices are required to participate.
Annual Christmas Program: Children put on an annual Christmas program, typically the Sunday before Christmas. Announcements will be made about