Guiding RAY – Our Children’s Christian Formation Program
Those who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God – Romans 8:14
At Saint Mary’s, we are committed to the spiritual formation of the children in our community. Our Guiding RAY program provides fun and interactive religious instruction for Pre K through Fifth grade.
During the program year (Sept. – June), we offer our children an opportunity to learn Bible stories and to develop their relationship with God. Our hope is to guide them to the safe harbor of God’s everlasting love where they can grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Our Regular Sunday schedule is as follows:
- 9:00-11:30 am – Nursery care for infants and toddlers (up to 3 years).
- 9:00-10:00 am – Childcare (free play) is available (PreK-5th grade).
- 10:00-10:15 am – Family Chapel is a group gathering with special guests. Parents Welcome!
- 10:15-10:45 am – Bible story workshops and activities.
- 10:50 am – Children join their families in the Sanctuary to receive Communion (or a blessing).
Please refer to the children’s calendar for the WINTER-SPRING schedule which also includes a few parish-wide special events.
We begin our regular Sundays at 9:00 am in the lower level of the Parish House. This is a time for the children to come together for free play, and making friends. Family Chapel begins at 10am with special guests and Families are welcome! Guiding RAY classes begin at 10:15am and our lessons and activities are inspired by the Workshop Rotation Model. The Workshop Rotation Model provides a great opportunity for volunteers to teach. It takes a minimal time commitment of one month (3 – 4 Sundays). The lesson plan is provided and teachers may plan their own activity or work with our Family Minister to plan an activity. Also with the Rotation Model, teachers have the chance to teach all ages (grades 1 – 5). It is also a great way to learn more about God and the Bible. No prior teaching experience needed.
Childcare for babies and toddlers (up to 3 years) is provided in the Nursery with our experienced sitters. Our Nursery is also located in the lower level of the Parish House.
At 10:50am the children will join their families in the Sanctuary. There are also Guiding RAY activity packets in the Narthex (entrance of the Sanctuary) for those children who want a quiet activity. Please feel free to take one or ask one of our friendly ushers for one.
Guiding RAY is a collaborative program so we hope all families will share their time and talents in some way. Whether you choose to teach, substitute, help with a movie day or a special event is greatly appreciated.
Click Here for Guiding RAY Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs)
Please contact our Family Minister, Meg Hurdman at 207-400-9011 or guidingray@smary.org to volunteer or if you have questions/comments.