Children are always welcome in our services, and it is a delight to have them.  However, many parents prefer concentrated time for their own spiritual refreshment during worship, with peace of mind knowing that their children are being lovingly cared for in a safe environment.

A quiet, fun, nurturing experience is provided for children 2 years old and under during the 10am Sunday church services, staffed by church members who adore children.  Our colorful Childcare Room features age-appropriate toys, high chair, play yard, table and chairs, and a changing table.  The Childcare Room is located on the 2nd floor across from the Church School Coordinator’s office and opens at 9:45am

The preschoolers and kindergartners start their Sunday morning in the Sanctuary with their families. Children of all ages leave the Sanctuary during the Passing of the Peace. They meet up with their teacher in our Gathering Room, right outside the Sanctuary. From there, the Lil’ Sprouts go to their classroom located on the 3rd Floor. Each week the Lil’ Sprouts sing songs, play games, and do activities that teach them about God’s love. These reinforce the Bible story of the week. All children will be brought down to their families in our Community Room after the

10 a.m. service.

This group starts Sunday worship in the Sanctuary with their families. During the Passing of the Peace, children and teachers leave the Sanctuary through the Gathering Room. The group is segmented into 3 classes: 1st and 2nd grade, 3rd through 5th grade, and 6th through 8th grade.

Grades 1-5 attend classes that focus on a Bible lesson reinforced by craft activities, discussion/sharing and prayer. Grades 6-8 meet in their own classroom and participate in numerous service projects during the school year. Often visited by guest speakers, the class learns about Wapping Community Church and its many missions. Youth read and discuss Scripture, engage in sharing and prayer, and enjoy activities that reinforce the message of God’s unfailing love.

A fun and active mission and fellowship group for middle schoolers (6-8th grades). The group meets in the Community Room two Sunday afternoons per month, from 4-6pm, September through early June. Leaders guide the group throughdiscussions, activities, games, and projects that help others in our community.

JPF is open to all middle schoolers who live in South Windsor and nearby towns.

a lively activity, mission and fellowship group for our high-schoolers (young people in 9th–12th grades). The group meets Sunday afternoons, 4-6pm in the Youth Room, September through July 1. It is a great place to make new friends, learn, grow, and care for others. We go on at least one, one-week mission trip each year, volunteering for service projects for needy communities in places as diverse as rural Maryland, New York City, Philadelphia and South Dakota.

This group is open to high schoolers who live in South Windsor and nearby towns.

For interested 9th and 10th graders, Wapping offers a comprehensive confirmation experience (program of faith formation) to Junior High youth. The curriculum is based on the UCC handbook, “A Congregation’s Guide to Confirmation, Affirming Faith.” Classes are taught by the Senior Pastor, Deacons and other qualified adults from the congregation.

Sessions include Community Life, Our History and Heritage, God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Church, God’s Gifts and Our Response. Lessons are interactive, activity and discussion-

based opportunities to spiritually connect with God and one another. Participants appreciate meaningful engagement around exploring, articulating and growing their faith. The experience includes a retreat, visits to other churches, and several mission components.

The Rite of Confirmation occurs at the end of the confirmation experience, during Sunday worship. Once confirmed, Confirmands are full members of the church, with all the privileges and rights assigned to any member.

Join us every June for an exciting and enriching Vacation Bible School at our church! Over the course of five fun-filled days, children will dive into engaging Bible stories, creative crafts, lively music, and interactive activities that bring faith to life. Each day is designed to inspire, educate, and entertain, offering a nurturing environment where kids can make new friends, explore their faith, and enjoy memorable experiences. Whether your child is discovering the stories of the Bible for the first time or looking to deepen their understanding, our Vacation Bible School provides a vibrant and welcoming space for growth and joy. We look forward to seeing your child there!

Our Sacred Dancers rehearse in the Sanctuary after the 10am services as we approach special worship services such as Christmas Sunday, Christmas Eve, and Easter. This inspiring group invites children ages 3 through 18 to express their faith through dance. The program offers a wonderful opportunity for young dancers to engage in worship preparation and contribute to the beauty of our services. If your child is interested in being part of this vibrant and creative group, please reach out to the Church Office for more details.