CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

Nurturing Children in Faith and Community

At Indianola First Methodist Church, we want children to know Jesus, learn Scripture, and grow up knowing they are part of the life of the church. Our children’s ministries serve children from infancy through 6th grade through worship, Sunday School, Bible study, prayer, service, and time together.

Deepening Connections Through Our Day School:

Our children's ministry works closely with our Day School, creating a cohesive and nurturing environment for spiritual growth throughout the week. Our Children’s Ministry works closely with the Day School, giving children opportunities throughout the week to learn about Jesus, hear Scripture, and grow in the life of the church

Age-Appropriate Development In Christ:

• Nursery: A caring environment for infants and toddlers up to 3 years, available during church services and events.

• Children’s Church: A special service for kids from 3k to Kindergarten during our Sunday morning services.

• Sunday School: Interactive lessons at 10:00 am for all ages, focusing on connecting children with the gospel in an approachable way.

Building Foundations of Faith in our Savior:

We are committed to laying a strong spiritual foundation for our children. Through Bible stories, songs, and activities, we instill core Christian values and teachings, making church a place of excitement and spiritual growth.

Creating a Safe and Fun Community:

Our children's ministry goes beyond education; we focus on creating a safe, fun community. Every child is welcomed and loved, fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit among our youngest members.

Weekly Activities for All Ages:

• Sunday School: Sunday mornings at 10am. This is a time for the whole family to participate in age appropriate discipleship. Classes for children are broken into age-groups (2k-6th grade). Elementary students study the Biggest Story Curriculum and walk through all the major stories of the Bible every 2 years. By the time a student finished 6th grade they have worked through the Bible 3 times!

• Children’s Church: Every Sunday morning children (3yrs-Kindergarten) are dismissed from the morning service (VINE & TRADITIONS) for an age-appropriate worship experience of their own. Parents take turns leading this time for our preschoolers.

• NOLA KIDS: Nola Kids (4k to 3rd grade) occurs the 1st/3rd/5th Sunday evening of the month during the school year. This is a time filled with singing, activities and lessons in Christian discipleship for our kiddos. Find out how you can on our serve page.

• MIDWEEK: This time is for the whole family to be together with the community of believers. Dinner starts at 5:15pm then childcare is provide for infants-3rd grade while adults have their own study. Youth have discipleship time and the Bridge (4th, 5th and 6th graders) meet. Midweek runs during the school year.

Seasonal Programs

• Bible Memory Program: A structured 11-week program helping children from 1st to 6th grade memorize bible verses and songs that is held each spring semester.

• Blessing of the Backpacks Service: Fun for the whole family, this is a great way to invite a friend to church. At the beginning of each school year we worship outside at the Pavilion. After the service there are inflatable bouncy-houses and a potluck.

• Easter Egg Hunt/Palm Sunday Service: Another church-wide service under the pavilion. Each year the children process in with palm branches and sing. After the service is an Easter egg hunt and potluck. It's a highlight for the entire Mississippi Delta community.

• Vacation Bible School (VBS): Our annual VBS is held at the beginning of June every Summer and is a memorable, fun-filled week filled with stories, games, and songs. Check our photos to see the joy and community spirit.

• Christmas Play: Our children annually recount the birth of Jesus Christ through a Christmas play. Their singing of Christmas carols sets the tone for the holiday season.