Programs for Children

9 am Casual Worship

9–9:45 am Worship in the Large Assembly—a casual worship service that will include word, prayer and music that is wide ranging and celebratory. We have tables set up in the room where families can gather and the children can color. Children are often included in parts of the service as well. Childcare is available for children ages 0-3 in the nursery. More about this service...

10 am Learning Hour

10–10:50 am Learning Hour—a time for children and youth from birth through high school to be with their friends in learning communities. Childcare continues to be available for children ages 0-3 in the nursery.

At First Congregational Church of Berkeley we believe the experience of our children and youth here is a sacred mission. We do not indoctrinate children with creeds or absolutes, but instead give them the tools and the confidence to find for themselves faith-filled answers that feel true to them. To do that, we ground them through our relationships in the certainty that they are God’s beloved children, always filled, loved and supported by the all-encompassing grace of God and a community that will hold them dear. Regardless of their life story, they know that we are all one in God’s unconditional love.

Through age-appropriate curricula—Godly Play, A Joyful Path, and Faith Practices—we teach the universality of God’s love for humanity and all of God’s creation. We seek to relate foundational old and new testament Bible stories to how we live our lives today as well as incorporate stories from varied faith traditions and cultures. We hope that each child will come to know that she and he holds potential miracles within their very being through the love of God as shown to us through Jesus.

Children of all ages are invited to discover the love of God through age-appropriate learning communities on Sunday mornings. We have five different age-based classes from birth through 12th grade each using curriculum and materials that encourage exploration, asking questions, self-expression through the arts, activities that draw them into the life of the whole church, service projects, and learning how to live in community. In all cases our learning community inspires children’s spiritual experiences while grounding them in the values and vocabulary of a progressive Christian faith.

11 am Classic Worship

11–12 pm Worship in the Sanctuary—a service that weaves together the best of current and traditional thought and practice. Children and younger youth will be invited out before the sermon for a time together and then return later in the service. More about this service...

Children’s Protection Policy

In order to create safe environments for children and youth at FCCB, the Church Council has passed a comprehensive Children’s Protection Policy which you can download. If you have questions about the policy please contact Acting Minister of Christian Education, Rev. Judy Huston.

Musical Groups for Children

FCCB has two children’s choirs, the Pilgrim Choir for 3rd to 6th graders and the Carol Choir for kindergarten through 2nd grade. Watch for information about rehearsal schedules.