Children’s Ministry at First Presbyterian Church
The mission of Family Ministries at First Presbyterian Church of Conway is to cultivate and grow a nurturing, faith-filled community, where every child feels valued, loved, and connected to God’s word. We create engaging programs that inspire spiritual growth, foster a sense of belonging, and involve families both within our church and in the broader community in meaningful ways.
Nursery Care (Birth to Age 4)
Our nursery is more than childcare—it’s a ministry of love and grace for our youngest children. We offer a safe, nurturing environment, where little ones experience God’s love through gentle care, play, and age-appropriate activities.
Nursery care is available during Sunday School, worship, and various other church events. Parents are welcome to stay as long as needed, and our goal is to provide peace of mind while the whole family grows in faith together.
The nursery includes two areas:
- Family Lounge—a cozy space attached to the nursery where parents can stay with their children while watching the service via live stream.
- Nursery Play Area—a secure play space where trained, background-checked caregivers provide loving attention.
Sunday School (Age 4 through Fifth Grade)
Our Sunday School meets year-round in the Children’s Ministry Room at 9:00 a.m. each Sunday. We use the Growing in Grace & Gratitude curriculum, a PC(USA) program rooted in Reformed theology and which invites children to see God’s grace and respond with gratitude.
Through stories, crafts, games, and discussion, children connect Bible lessons to their everyday lives in engaging, age-appropriate ways. Each week offers opportunities to grow in faith, build friendships, and experience God’s love in community.
Children’s Church During Worship (Pre-K through Fifth Grade)
As children grow, they are encouraged to begin participating in worship with the whole congregation. To support families in this transition, we offer Children’s Church after the Children’s Moment in service.
This program is available for children in pre-K (age 4) through fifth grade, though it is always a parent’s choice as to when their child is ready to remain in the full service. During Children’s Church, kids enjoy a Bible lesson, which helps them connect Scripture to everyday life through storytelling, activities, and discussion. Children’s Church provides a meaningful worship experience for kids while giving parents the opportunity to be fully present in the sanctuary.
Events for Children and Family
Faith formation at First Presbyterian extends beyond Sunday mornings. Throughout the year, we offer special events that bring children and families together for fellowship, fun, and spiritual growth. Some events are designed especially for our church family, while others welcome the wider community to join in and experience God’s love.
Highlights include:
- Trunk or Treat—a festive evening of costumes, candy, and community, offering a safe and joyful way to celebrate Halloween.
- Children’s Christmas Party—a time of fellowship, learning, and fun as children celebrate the birth of Christ through activities, stories, and crafts.
- Easter Egg Hunt and Family Egg Hunts—opportunities to celebrate the joy of Easter with games, crafts, and fellowship for families in our congregation and community.
- Vacation Bible School (VBS)—a weeklong summer experience filled with Bible stories, songs, games, and crafts, engaging children in an unforgettable faith adventure.
- Music and Arts Opportunities—seasonal programs where children share their creativity through song, drama, and art, celebrating God’s gifts in meaningful ways.
Together, these gatherings provide spaces for children to grow in faith, build friendships, and experience the joy of being part of God’s family.
Service and Leadership Opportunities
At First Presbyterian, we believe children grow in faith not only by learning but also by serving. We provide opportunities for kids to take active roles in the life of the church, nurturing their gifts and helping them see themselves as leaders in God’s family.
- Children’s Mission Trip—opportunities to share God’s love through meaningful outreach and service projects.
- Acolyting—children in 2nd grade and above help lead worship by carrying the light of Christ into the sanctuary and assisting during services.
- Children’s Sabbath—Once each year, children plan and lead an entire worship service, sharing their faith through prayers, readings, music, and leadership.
Through these experiences, children discover that they are not only the church of tomorrow but also an important part of the church today.
Summer Camp: Ferncliff
Each summer, children are invited to Ferncliff Camp and Conference Center, just an hour from Conway. Campers grow in faith while enjoying swimming, hiking, canoeing, archery, arts and crafts, and more. Families can also join Family Camp. To support participation, FPC provides a $100 scholarship per child.
For First Presbyterian Church Education Ministries, click here: Preschool and Summer Day Camp