Children
& Youth
Our Plan for Children and Youth
From infancy through high school, our approach to nurturing, guiding, and training our children aligns with the principles mentioned in 2 Timothy 2:1-10.
Farmer
In the early stage, from infancy to elementary school, we view this period as parallel to cultivating a farmer. Just as a farmer prepares and tends to the land, sows seeds, removes weeds, and patiently awaits the harvest, we will provide the foundational care and teachings necessary for our children.
Athlete
As they progress to middle school, our focus shifts toward imparting the work and fruit of the Holy Spirit, cultivating spiritual discipline, and fostering practical wisdom. This phase is similar to molding a disciplined and focused athlete. Just as athletes train rigorously to achieve excellence, we will guide our students to embrace spiritual disciplines, assisting them to grow in faith and character.
Soldier
Upon reaching high school, our approach evolves once more. During this critical period, students will identify available mentors who will provide guidance, reflect upon and reaffirm their spiritual journeys, engage with perspectives on the global Christian movement, and take leadership in outreach ministry in order to be equipped to become steadfast warriors for Christ.
We would like to nurture our students to be like farmers who tend to their fields, guide them as disciplined athletes, and empower them to be spiritual warriors through mentorship, self-discovery, and engagement within and beyond the University Presbyterian Church community.
However, integrating these principles and practices will not take place unless the parents are willing to partner with the church staff and contribute to the programs because parents will ultimately make goals and decisions for their children until they leave for college.
A Plan for Families
We believe parents are the primary spiritual influence in their child’s life. At UPC, our Children & Youth Ministry exists to come alongside you, offering guidance, resources, and a faith community that partners with your family. Together, we share the responsibility of nurturing children in Christ.
How Parents Contribute
Be the Primary Faith Influencer: Parents dedicate their children to the Lord and model a life of faith at home through prayer, blessings, and family devotions.
Partner with the Church: At baptism and beyond, parents commit to walking with the church in raising their children spiritually, recognizing that this journey is a shared responsibility.
Engage in Family Worship Practices: Lead children in mealtime prayers, bedtime blessings, Scripture reading, and songs that root faith in everyday rhythms.
Pray for All Children: Join the “prayer forest,” committing not only to your own child’s faith journey but also to covering the entire community of children in prayer.
Our Shared Motto
“The family that
prays, serves, and plays together
stays together.”
Focus Areas
Preschool & Early Elementary (TK–1st Grade): Children are introduced to prayer, songs, and Bible stories in fun and interactive ways. They begin learning the Ten Commandments, simple Bible verses, and what it means to worship and pray as a family.
Elementary (2nd–5th Grade): Kids deepen their understanding of faith through prayer journals, memorizing Scripture, and learning the order of the Old and New Testaments. They also serve alongside their families in small projects, discovering that worship, fellowship, and stewardship are all part of following Jesus.
Middle School (6th–8th Grade): Students explore what it means to live as a Christian in today’s world. They study the Lord’s Prayer and Apostles’ Creed, learn about the fruit of the Spirit, and talk through current events with a biblical perspective. Friendships, personal devotion, and service become central as they grow in responsibility and faith.