EDUCATION MINISTRY
Christian Education is an important part of the life of LABC. Whether you are dipping your toes in the waters of faith, or have been on the journey for many years, there is a place for you at LABC. We have education opportunities for everyone, no matter what age you may be. Join us as we grow together.
Together we seek to be a community that is growing in our faith and love for God. Regular Sunday morning Sunday School classes for all ages and other special groups and activities provide ways to study the Bible, grow in our spiritual practice, and discern God’s workings in the world around us. Led by the Education Ministry and our many dedicated volunteer teachers, we as a community grow as disciples of Jesus Christ and support each other on our spiritual journeys.
(*Please note that all of our Education Ministry is governed by an active and yearly reviewed Child Safety Policy - Copies of the policy are available from the Church Office)
Children
Children are welcomed as important members of our church community. We are a very diverse group with many children from Karen, Karenni, Congolese, and Chin, and American families joining together. Our Sunday School classes are taught in English with other languages added in as needed. Our children not only hear the teachings of Christ, but they are also involved in putting what they learn into practice in hands-on, interactive ways. They participate in congregational worship, joining in the early part of our service. They occasionally lead worship in different ways, sharing what they have been learning.
A nursery is provided for infants and toddlers. Many of our parents choose to stay in the nursery with their children while listening to our service. We welcome other parents who choose to bring their children into worship with them. Alternatively, they are welcome to take them to the nursery.
During the summer months children’s Sunday School classes continue, but with larger and more informal structure.
A Burmese Children’s class meets during Burmese worship to teach Burmese language and also Christian faith through use of Bible stories and songs in Burmese.
Youth
The Youth program involves Sunday morning classes and Youth Fellowship Activities. We have two classes - one for Middle School/Junior High youth (6th-8th grades) and one for Senior Highs (9-12th grades) led by volunteer youth leaders. Our youth come from many backgrounds and speak several languages (Karen, Congolese, French,
Karenni, Kachin, Burmese, English, and Chin). Youth join in community worship,
occasionally leading in a variety ways. They usually leave the worship service about halfway through to go to their Youth Sunday School classes.
Youth also participate in church and community service activities and fellowship events,both as a Lake Avenue Youth Group and occasionally with other churches in the region. Youth Fellowship, grades 6 – 12 , meets for special activities for recreation, group-
building, and service.
Adults
Our adult education small groups meet on Sunday mornings after worship September
through May, with occasional special study groups, workshops, and other events offered throughout the year. Our offerings include classes on gay theology and LGBT concerns, Bible study, spirituality, and forums on varied social justice issues.
Scholarships
Lake Avenue offers scholarships for members and friends. More specific information on the application requirements and scope of these scholarships is available from the church office. Scholarship applicants are sought in the spring of the year with awards made no later than June.