Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all." He took a little child and had him stand among them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me."
Mark 9:35
The Bentwood Trail Children’s Ministry program focuses on education, worship and outreach to the community. We make every effort to establish traditions by repeating, refining and expanding specific events and celebrations each year. We support parents in their role as the primary educators of their children, and engage the entire congregation in nurturing children by keeping them informed and inviting them to participate in intergenerational activities. The ministry supports its teachers with age appropriate curriculum and supplies that help them teach and reach the children, as mentors serving as teachers, assistants and volunteers.
Our primary goal and mission is the children’s faith formation – an awakening that begins in early childhood and continues throughout their life.
A central part of all our programming is to assure parents that their children are safe and well cared for by our staff and volunteers. Also, we desire and delight in the opportunity to share the love of Jesus with your children.
Our staff and volunteers have been thoroughly screened and trained so you can experience a meaningful and peaceful Sunday morning at BTPC. We are blessed and thank you for entrusting us with the care of your children, while you attend worship or participate in one of our adult Sunday School classes.
As age groups and ranges ebb and flow, Sunday School is offered for:
Infant s & Toddlers
When you bring your child to the infant and/or toddler room, please take a moment to complete an information sheet for your child, as this allows us to provide personalized care. It is our policy to only care for “well” children, in order not to expose others to colds or illnesses.
Infants: Newborn to 18 Months
The nursery is well-equipped and staffed for infant care. All equipment and toys are sterilized after use and staff follows stringent guidelines recommended for the care of infants.
Toddlers: 18 Months to 4 Years
Our primary goal is to provide a consistent, trustworthy environment for the toddlers as they gain their independence, utilizing age-appropriate Bible Story curriculum. The toddler play area is specifically designed to accommodate children from the time they begin to walk until they are 4 years old. This room includes a housekeeping area, book and toy area.
K-5th Grade
Our K-5th grade class meets in Dealy Hall. Children are introduced to basic Christian beliefs, as understood in the reformed faith, by trained instructors who use Presbyterian curriculum to incorporate lessons, projects, and activities in a variety of learning methods.
Worship is at 10:30 a.m.
Children are a very important part of our worship and are encouraged to remain in the service with their families, learning how to worship God. Resources are available to assist in their worship experience. Following the Scripture Readings, children and youth are invited to gather on the chancel steps for a Moment for Young Disciples. Additionally, our professionally staffed nursery is available for children through age 4.
Other Bentwood Trail programs for children:
3rd Grade Bibles - BTPC children entering the third grade are presented a special Bible from their church family.
Community Service Projects – Periodically throughout the year, families will have the opportunity to participate in various outreach and service projects in our local community.
Annual Neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt - Come hunt Easter eggs, enjoy refreshments, and have your picture made with the Easter Bunny!
VBS - Children are able to witness the love of God through each other and through our experienced staff and volunteers, while having fun, creating crafts, playing games and sports, experiencing meaningful stories of the Bible, dancing, singing and much more.
Kidquake - A Presbytery weekend camp at Camp Gilmont in the piney woods of East Texas for children (1st–5th grade), where they build relationships with other kids from the Presbytery, and experience God’s presence in a safe and loving environment.
assist in their worship experience. Following the Scripture Readings, children are invited to gather on the chancel steps for A Special Time For Children and Youth. Additionally, our professionally staffed nursery is available for children through age 4.
