Christian Education at Westmoreland
At Westmoreland Congregational UCC, our approach to Christian education is informed by two assumptions:
- Christian education is a life-long endeavor. We are forever learning, ever meeting new situations and revisiting those past. God is still speaking, and we are always working to better hear and respond to God's calls.
- Learning is a communal process and should be engaged in purposefully. Learning happens in every aspect of the church's life, through participating in Sunday worship, engaging in service, and gathering for fellowship. All of these communal practices help us to make sense of the world in which we live. They shape our identity; they inform our understanding of who we are and how we are to act. These practices are enriched by engaging in intentional study and discussion to dig ever deeper
Taking these two assumptions seriously, Westmoreland Church offers a variety of enriching programs for the spiritual and personal growth of youth and adults. We gather to learn, reflect on, and live the Christian tradition in which we live and move and have our being.
Church School Programs
Church school reaches from nursery through high school. Westmoreland's nursery is staffed year-round by a consistent care provider for the youngest children, currently assisted by one of our high school youth. We hold church school classes from September to June for children ages four through eighteen. During the summer months, an exciting hands-on curriculum is offered for ages five to twelve.
Youth Programs
Westmoreland offers educational, social and service opportunities for its youth. In addition to regular church school classes, a sexuality education class is offered biannually for 8th and 9th graders, and a confirmation curriculum is offered biannually for 9th and 10th graders. The Middle School and High School groups meet often for social activities and community service projects.
Adult Education Programs
Throughout the year, Westmoreland offers adult education classes before and after church, as well as on weekdays. Classes cover a variety of topics, including Bible study and issues of modern life. There are opportunities for spiritual renewal such as weekend retreats, and single issues workshops such as forums on parenting.
Elisabeth Tisdale Nordbeck Library
For additional information, contact John Forrest Douglas, Interim Director of Children, Youth and Families at (301) 229-7766.
Page last updated 18 September 2011.
