Children & Youth Ministries – Faith Formation for All Ages

Welcome to the United Congregational Church; a place where children and youth are nurtured, loved and imparted with God’s love. Children and Youth Ministries upholds the core church beliefs and values through a holistic community of faith approach to Christian Education with a deep commitment to children and their spiritual growth. Based on the teachings of Jesus, we believe faith is a journey taught best in community and transformational learning occurs while serving and living out the Gospel together as one body, one spirit.

Due to the global pandemic and the ever changing religious landscape, we renewed our vision and goals to better reflect the needs of faith formation today. Here are a few highlighted goals.

To inspire our children/youth to explore their relationship with God, connection to their church, and ways of loving God, self and neighbors- human and non human neighbors.
To cultivate intergenerational relationships through the sharing of gifts and passions..
To foster an environment where all are welcome.
To nourish a sense of place and connections between the natural world, sacred story, and faith; where curiosity, awe and wonder are valued.
To encourage children and youth participation in worship, confirmation and the two Sacraments; Baptism and Communion.
To celebrate the gift of grace and that there is one body and one Spirit.
To provide opportunities for Biblical engagement and Christian Education instruction that honors learning styles, imagination, gifts, diversity, stages, historical context and relevance to today which includes social justice, advocacy, mission work and witnessing and embodying the Gospel.
To promote and teach spiritual practices and rituals that lead to a foundation of lifelong learning; teaching and growing in Christian faith.
To partner with parents for faith at home support and contemporary discipleship.
To conduct on-going discernment and be willing to trust where God is calling us next.

What People are Saying

I like how everybody at church knows everyone and everybody is friendly even to those they don't know, no matter what. — Mackenzie, Age 15

I appreciate the strong sense of community that is always inclusive and welcoming. — Elaine, Age 57

We have had 17 moves. Every time we came back to Newport we were welcomed as though we had never been away. — Debby, Age 79

This church offers friendship, music and the preaching of God's word.

As part of this congregation, I appreciate our pastor and teacher, Rev. Joe Tripp.... — Mary, Age 59

The kindest compilation of friends and family reside within our community. I've made some of my best friends here and joining the church is the best decision I've ever made. — Noah, 16

UCC, Middletown – A wonderful place to make 100 real friends without using Facebook. — Chris, Age 60

The trucks in the nursery are fun to play with. — Kevin, Age 6

I most appreciate the closeness of everyone in our church. It's like one big family. — Rebecca, Age 18

Our church is very special. While we are a community of worshipers, we are also a community of friends and family. Anyone is welcome to join our family and that is a beautiful thing. — Noah, Age 16

Children & Youth Ministries – Faith Formation for All Ages

What People are Saying

Highlighted Events