Opportunities for Children
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At Derry Church , children are welcomed and encouraged to take part in the worship experience. After all, worship is for the entire family of God – including grown-ups. Kids who like to read or color can pick up a listening bag at the entrance to the Sanctuary, and use the papers, book, and crayons inside to keep their hands busy as they listen to the words and music. We suggest opening the bag about half-way through the service, right before the sermon. Ushers can also provide kid-friendly children's bulletins for those who would like one.

The early part of the service has lots of movement, singing and activity that can be interesting and engaging to kids (of all ages). During the 10:30 am worship, a short children's talk is presented at the front of the church, and children are welcome to come forward to listen and participate.

Be sure and check out this free childrens resource:




KIWI: "Kids In Worship Instruction"...

Church Nurseries...
Babies or children younger than four might like to visit our nursery, directly across the hall from the Sanctuary (near the rest rooms). There is a room for children two and younger, and a room for kids ages two to four. When you sign in, you can pick up a pager that will silently alert you should you be needed by your child while you’re at worship.

Some people have found that the lounge at the west end of the sanctuary (through the glass doors) is a good place to hang out with energy-filled kids. You can see and hear the worship service even though you are slightly removed from it.

Pilgrim Fellowship, Grades 3-5...
The Pilgrim Fellowship (grades 3-5) meets at least monthly during the school year. Popular activities have included apple gleaning, visiting local nursing homes, an overnight lock-in at the church, picnics, making and delivering Easter baskets to kids in inner-city Harrisburg , and serving the annual senior luncheon in December. Often the group meets immediately following the 10:30 am worship on Sundays. CLICK HERE to view the 2010 schedule, download forms, etc.

Children and Sacraments....
Presbyterians believe that it is the responsibility of the entire congregation to nurture those who are baptized to respond to the invitation to the Lord's Supper. The Children and Sacraments program is offered during Lent for parents and children to explore the meaning of Baptism and its relation to the Lord's Supper. Although this opportunity is not a requirement for taking communion, the children completing this program will be welcomed to the Lord's Table on Maundy Thursday.
Terrific Tuesdays....
Terrific Tuesdays is a weekly program for the entire family that runs from September to Thanksgiving and from January through April. Terrific Tuesdays begins with a hot meal in Fellowship Hall from 5:15-6 pm, followed by children's choir rehearsals, handbell and chime choir practice, brass ensemble and sign choir rehearsals, Bible study, evening worship (6:45-7:30 pm in the Chapel), recreation and more.

Summer Programs...
  • Church school classes continue through the summer for all ages.
  • A week-long Vacation Bible School will be held 9 am-noon August 1-5 for kids age three through fifth grade completed. Registration will begin in May/June.
  • Many Derry Church kids enjoy spending a week in the summer at Krislund Camp. The Mustard Seed Fund is available to help off-set the cost of camp, more information can be found on the Scholarship page of the website.

God's Hidden Hands Puppet Ministry...
Participation in the church's puppet ministry is offered for middle school youth (typically grades six through eight). This creative group makes its own props and presents a variety of short puppet shows in worship and for special occasions throughout the school year. God's Hidden Hands rehearses 5:30-6:30 pm Tuesdays in room 4, September through May.

For more information about any of the opportunities listed above,
contact Debbie Hough, Director of Christian Education.