Children & Family Ministries -

Children and Family Ministries

Making the message of Jesus irresistible to children and youth is the work of every single member of St. Paul’s. From the cradle through college, we offer opportunities for learning and fun.

Nursery Care: For children ages 4 and under

We have nursery care available downstairs in the undercroft every Sunday during the 11 a.m. service, though children of all ages are always welcome to stay with their parents in church. We love children at St. Paul’s: noise, questions, energy and all!

Preschool and Elementary Age: Sunday School/Godly Play

Preschool and elementary school-aged children can learn about God and living a life of faith in a safe, loving environment. We are using a Sunday School program called Godly Play. Godly Play uses active storytelling and children’s innate sense of wonder to help children explore their faith. To support or participate in this program, or with any questions, contact Andria Reid at godlyplaybenicia@outlook.com.

Confirmation Classes – Confirm not Conform

Confirm not Conform provides a safe place for people to explore the breadth of the Christian tradition, to ask questions and express their doubts, and to discover what they truly believe.

Confirm not Conform:

is a 15-week program for Confirmation
encourages active participation in class sessions, worship, and service
pairs youth with adult mentors
uses visual, aural, and embodied learning
emphasizes being able to ask the questions and find out the answers rather than providing the answers
challenges youth to take the lead in projects of significance

Pathways Pilgrimage (Diocese of Northern California Pilgrimage)

Pathways 2020 is an event open to all youth finishing grades 7-12.

Please click on the links below to view a story on Pathways 2017, reflections and more.

* Pathways presentation at 2016 Diocesan Convention

* Episcopal News Service article on Pathways 2017

* Bishop Barry explains the difference between tourism and pilgrimage

* Pathways, from the perspective of young adult leader Elizabeth Potts

* Reflection video from the members of St. Luke’s, Woodland

* A sermon from the Rev. Kathy Hopner of Trinity Cathedral

Sierra Service Project

St. Paul’s has been involved in mission work with the Sierra Service Project for 25 years. Each year we send 24 youth and counselors to Native American or urban communities to better the lives of the underserved.

All Ages: Acolytes

Kids of all ages are invited to be acolytes. No matter your age or experience, we have a place for you! Please contact the Rev. Annie Mertz at rector@stpaulsbenicia.org to participate.

All Ages: Kids’ Vacation Academy (KVA)

We look forward to the return of KVA for Summer 2023. Join us if you can! Contact the church office if you are interested.