South Salem Presbyterian Church

Education

We believe that Christian education is a lifelong process, and we offer weekly opportunities for people of all ages to deepen their faith, enhance their knowledge of the Bible, and learn what makes Christian life distinctive.

Sunday School

Children from preschool through middle school are welcome to attend Pastor with children our Sunday School, held each Sunday morning at 10 a.m. Children begin by attending worship with their families for the first 10 minutes. Following the pastor’s children’s message, they go upstairs to class. Our nursery attendants are happy to take care of infants and toddlers during the service.

2006-2007 Program

Welcome back to Sunday School! For our grades 1-5 group of children, we are continuing with the third year of our Cornerstones Rotational Curriculum. We are entering a year long unit "The Messiah" which is Jesus Christ. From the time of the early prophets, the people of Israel placed their hope on the arrival of a deliverer. King David became the reference point for those prophets, promising a return to the throne of someone who would institute a New Kingdom. This deliverer, The Anointed One of God, the Messiah, would bring salvation from earthly oppression. Jesus' birth, baptism, crucifixion and resurrection fulfilled those prophecies. Whether explored in Handel's Messiah, Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, or contemporary multi cultural representations, Jesus Christ as the Messiah is the central figure of our faith.

Our units are David, Isaiah, Jesus as Fulfillment of the Prophecies, Handel's Messiah, Jesus' Baptism; Jesus Washes the Disciples Feet, Appearances of the Holy Sprit, Images of Jesus in the Arts and the Prince of Peace. Interwoven in the lesson plans are opportunities for this age group to participate in community mission, involvement in our church and the opportunity to get to know all of the adult members of our congregation.

Maria Rochman, of Music Together, will also be back to help with our Christmas Pageant which is based upon a Spanish poem translated into a children's book about the shepherds as they meet people along their journey to Bethlehem and each person points toward their ministry of Jesus. Our pageant this year will also represent the different pieces of the unit the children have covered prior to Christmas.

We have a separate class for ages 3-5 which includes our Kindergartners. We are again using the Seasons of the Spirit curriculum which offers a full range of lessons, music and art. We have three wonderful teachers for this age group who provide consistency and fun activities for our younger set.

Finally, for our middle school we have a separate Sunday schedule and youth activities. Thanks to our families we have enjoyed each others company over the summer and made plans for the school year during a pool party and beach party. We have a Haunted Hay Maze planned in October and throughout the year we have both community and church service projects planned. Our High School youth have been invited to also participate in a special 13 week Bible Study on Galations. For parents of middle and high school youth interested in our programs, please contact the church office.

Confirmation

Confirmation classes are held from November through Easter every other year. Eighth and Ninth graders and those older youth who have not gone through confirmation yet are welcome. Pastor Nadine works with other adult leaders to design and lead each year’s program which includes a study of other world religions, an exploration of who God and Jesus are, and discussions on the purpose of the church and what being a church member means. Contact the pastor for schedule.

Adult Education

Sunday morning Bible Study - Galations

A group discussion bible study is held Sunday mornings from 8:45 to 9:45. Coffee is provided! This season's sessions are studying the book of Galations. New members and drop-ins are welcome at any time. Contact Tom Gerhard or the church office for additional information.

Wednesday Friends

This group has been going strong for nearly 10 years, and meets weekly from September through June at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. We read books on spiritual topics and Christian living, and talk about current issues and events in light of biblical teachings. Everyone is welcome, and no previous knowledge of the Bible is needed. Led by the Fred Turpin.

Adult CE Events

Regular events are held to discuss topics of interest, such as current events, films, and books. Check the monthly Noah's Dove for upcoming events.

Auburn Seminary Programs

Our proximity to New York City makes it possible to go as a group to some of the exceptional lectures and multifaith programs offered by this Presbyterian theological institution. Programs include seminars specifically for lawyers and those in the corporate world. Please speak to the pastor for more information.