When is Sunday School Offered?

Sunday School is held during the weekly sermon time on Sunday mornings. Children participate in the first part of service with their families, and then leave during the second hymn. A Sunday School teacher will escort the children into the classroom area. The children return during Prayers for the People and are invited to sit with their families or with the Sunday School group to worship for the rest of the service.

The North Church of Portsmouth Sunday School program is held September through June. During the summer months, we invite children and youth to worship with their families. We have a “prayground” area in the sanctuary for children to color, move around, and make some noise during service.

What is Taught During Sunday School?

Sunday School lessons typically expand upon the same scripture passage highlighted in that week’s sermon, paired with a craft, game, or service project.

What Kinds of Activities Happen During Sunday School?

Some examples of past Sunday School activities include creating hygiene bags for unhoused people in Portsmouth, handmade crafts to gift to family and friends, and participating in plays based on the scripture.

Who Teaches Sunday School Lessons?

North Church’s Parish Life Board and various volunteers teach Sunday School lessons.

What Are the Qualifications for Becoming a Sunday School Teacher?

An enthusiasm for teaching or mentoring children is a key qualification for our Sunday School teachers. All Sunday School teachers must successfully complete a NH background check.

Are Parents Involved with the Classes?

Parents are welcome to participate as teachers or to accompany their child during the Sunday School session. Otherwise, most parents worship while the children attend Sunday School.

What Happens if There Are Behavioral Problems/Issues with Children During Sunday School?

If there are behavioral issues during a Sunday School session, our teachers will address the issue as it’s happening and then follow up with the parent or guardian after worship. If the issue is unresolvable and the parent or guardian is needed, the teacher will contact the parent or guardian during worship in-person or via text message.

How Do You Ensure the Safety of Children During Sunday School Sessions?

We practice a Safe Church Policy which includes multiple background-checked adults at every children’s gathering and standards for maintaining a secure classroom space.

Are There Any Costs Associated with Sunday School Participation?

No.

Are There Snacks?

Occasionally, we have allergy-friendly snacks during Sunday School. Children are encouraged to participate in fellowship time where there are many, many snacks to be had.

Is There an Accessible Bathroom?

We do not currently have an accessible bathroom where Sunday School is held. There is a bathroom on the first floor of the building that can be used with a teacher escort.

Do Youth Group Members Attend Regular Sunday Worship Services?

Yes, especially if they would like to participate as a worship leader! A worship leader is someone who reads scripture, sings in the choir, helps lead technology services, and assists with other aspects of our services.

Is There Any Specific Format for Youth Group?

Typically, Youth Group starts with opening check-ins, an icebreaker game, some sort of social activity (e.g., service project or game), spiritual practice, fellowship, and snacks.

Activities include everything from touring the North Church building to using our imaginations as wildly as possible to exploring neighborhood churches. The group often engages in conversation about current events, especially as they relate to our faith and spirituality. We practice Bible study and develop spiritual practices that meet the needs of the youth who have gathered.

What Are the Qualifications For Becoming a Youth Group Leader?

An enthusiasm for teaching or mentoring young adults is essential. All Youth Group leaders must successfully complete a NH background check.

Are Parents Involved with Youth Group?

Parents and guardians are welcome to attend Youth Group as and serve as leaders, should they want to.

What Happens if There Are Behavioral Problems or Issues with Participants?

If there are behavioral issues during a Youth Group gathering, our leaders will address the issue as it’s happening and then follow up with the parent or guardian. Depending on the severity of the issue, future participation may be limited or retracted.

How Do You Ensure the Safety of Participants During Youth Group Gatherings?

We practice a Safe Church Policy which includes multiple background-checked adults at every youth gathering and standards for maintaining a secure classroom space.

Are There Any Costs Associated with Youth Group Participation?

There are no dues or ongoing costs associated with participation. However, if there are field trips or retreats, there may be costs associated with the event.