Children & Family Ministry
At Eastern Shore Chapel, children and their families are an essential part of our community. We believe children should be fully included in the life of the church, with their voices heard and their presence welcomed in worship and beyond. Our goal is to nurture children in faith and help families grow together in love, service, and spiritual understanding.
For more information, email: BennettCard@easternshorechapel.org
Our Mission
Family Ministry at ESC provides spiritual formation experiences at church and at home. We help families live into Jesus' teachings of love, mercy, compassion and grace by:
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Building Biblical knowledge
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Encouraging spiritual growth
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Exploring Episcopal traditions
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Applying faith to everyday life
These opportunities go beyond Sunday mornings and include take-home resources, family friendly events and worship experiences.
Children's Chapel (Ages 3-7)
Sundays during the 10:30 a.m. Service
Children start worship with their families and are then led by trained, Safe Church-certified adults to a special chapel time with songs, stories, and prayers. They return at the Passing of the Peace to rejoin their families for Communion.
Worship & Children
Children are always welcome in worhsip!
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Liturgy Bags are available in the Narthex with seasonal and lectionary-based activities. Please return them after the service.
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Youth Participation: Children and teens often serve as lay readers, acolytes, and choir members at the 10:30 a.m. service
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Interested in becoming an acolyte (6th grade+)? Contact Susan Buchanan or Ellen Gallup
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Nursery Care (Infants - 4 years)
Available Sundays during the 10:30 a.m. service & 9:15 a.m. during Faith Formation (Sept-May)
Our nursery is staffed by certified professionals and offers a loving, age-appropriate environment for infants and toddlers. Nursery care is also available for many special services and events.
For non-Sunday services, call the church office at (757) 428-6763 to confirm availability.
Faith Formation
(Sunday School)
Sundays, 9:15 - 10:15 a.m. | September - Pentecost
Classes are available for ages 4 through adult. Students are groups by age or grade.
Godly Play (Pre-K-1st grade)
Montessori-based curriculum that helps young children explore their faith through story, wonder, and play. Led by trained and certified Storytellers and Doorkeepers.
Christ Kids (2nd – 5th grades)
This hands-on, engaging curriculum connects scripture with real life through games, crafts, videos, and discussion. Students use their Bible and explore stories through questioning and creativity.
Special Summer Programs
Summer Music Camp
August 3-7, 2026
Children entering grades 2-6 enjoy a week of music, games, and faith-building fun. Camp includes vocal training, handbells, crafts, and more - culminating in a special musical offering during the 10:30 a.m. worship on Sunday, August 9.
Questions? Contact Holly Sunderland
Vacation Bible School (VBS)
July 13-17, 2026
Children in 2nd - 5th grade experience a week of Bible stories, music, crafts, and games - all centered around the message of God's love. It's a fun and faith-filled summer highlight!
More information on registering for both events coming soon.