Children & Youth Ministry Overview

The United Methodist Church of Geneva is dedicated to nurturing the spiritual growth and well-being of children and youth through engaging programs and meaningful ministries. From Sunday school and interactive worship experiences to youth groups and service projects, the church creates a welcoming space where young people can explore their faith, build lasting friendships, and develop a strong spiritual foundation By combining education, mentorship, and community, the church empowers children and youth to grow in their relationship with God and make a positive impact in the world around them

Please register your kids for 2026-27 Sunday School Here.

UMCG KIDS SUNDAY SCHOOL STARTS SEPTEMBER 13

Children’s Ministry – 2026-2027

Nursery Care

Infants through toddlers are welcomed into a safe, nurturing environment with trained, background checked leaders. Child-led play, age appropriate toys, books, and more help create an inviting space. Families are asked to sign children in and out each Sunday. Completing a Children’s Ministry registration form helps us best care for your child and family.

Our PreK–5th grade Sunday School kicks off on Sunday, September 13! Be sure to register your children here.

This year, our theme is commUNITY, and throughout the year we’ll explore what it means to live together as people who are connected to God, one another, our neighbors, and the world around us.

Our Sunday School is doing something new this year! We will have two classes:

PreK–2nd Grade [welcome to drop off in room 116 before worship]
3rd–5th Grade [will join leaders during Children’s Time in worship]

Children will all head down to there respective classes after Children’s Time in worship for age-appropriate, hands-on experiences that help them explore Scripture, ask big questions, practice faith, and build community. Be sure to check out the attached Kid’s Monthly for ways kids can help others, learn more about commUNITY, and much more!

And, of course, we are always looking for adults who would enjoy being part of this ministry! You don’t have to be a teacher or have all the answers; just a willingness to show up, listen, play, and grow alongside the children. If you’re interested in volunteering, sign up here!

We’ll share updates, details, and sign-ups through the church calendar, weekly communications, and social media throughout the school year.

Youth Kickoff – September 13

Our youth are kicking off the year on Sunday, September 13 with Starbucks Sunday! Be sure to register youth here, so they have permission to go! Youth (6th-12th grade) will meet for a walk to Starbucks and some time to catch up, connect, and begin dreaming together about the year ahead.

Our regular youth rhythm this year will include:

1st Sundays – Worship Together [6th-12th]
We’ll worship as a church family, including sharing in Holy Communion.
2nd Sundays – Starbucks Sunday for all Youth [6th-12th]
3rd & 4th Sundays – Middle School Sunday School [6th-8th] & High School Serve & Lead Opportunities [9th-12th] – 6th-8th grade will enjoy a class of their own! While High School Youth will have opportunities to serve & participate in worship, Kid’s Sunday School or nursery.

Middle School Sunday School begins September 20 and will meet on the 3rd and 4th Sundays of each month. Be sure to check out the attached Youth Calendar for all of the details and upcoming events! And if you’re interested in volunteering please sign up here.

Youth Serving at Hesed House – September 14

Our youth have an opportunity to serve at Hesed House on Monday, September 14. Registration is required, please sign up here. If your youth would like to participate but transportation is a barrier, please let us know, we’re happy to help work out a ride. This is one of the ways we hope to help our young people move beyond simply learning about faith and into living it out through service and connection with our community. Plus, if you need service hours, we will sign off on them for participation in this opportunity.

Churchwide Serve: Fox River Cleanup – September 19

On Saturday, September 19 from 9:00 AM–Noon, we’ll gather at Island Park in Geneva with other community members for the Fox River cleanup! This is a great opportunity for the whole family to spend a morning caring for the beautiful creation God has entrusted to us. Come for the whole morning or whatever portion you can—Plus, if you need service hours, we will sign off on them for participation in this opportunity.

Check out our Youth Fall Calendar below:

Confirmation

Our Confirmation program is a joint effort offered for youth at Wesley: Aurora, Baker Memorial, Batavia, and Geneva United Methodist Churches. Running from January to May, the program is designed for youth in 6th grade and up who demonstrate readiness for confirmation, including those who have not yet been baptized. Classes are led by the pastors of these four churches and focus on deepening understanding of the Christian faith, the United Methodist tradition, and the individual’s relationship with God.

In the United Methodist tradition, confirmation is a significant step in a person’s faith journey, where youth publicly affirm the baptismal vows made on their behalf as infants—or, for those not yet baptized, take the step of baptism as they make their personal commitment to Christ. This process helps confirmands grow in their understanding of God’s grace and the life of discipleship. Through classes, discussions, and retreats, confirmands explore the Bible, the church’s beliefs, and how to live out their faith in daily life.

The outcome of confirmation is not only a personal affirmation of faith but also a deeper commitment to the church community. Confirmands are welcomed into full participation in the life and ministry of the church, embracing their call as disciples of Christ.

We illuminate our community with God’s grace as we lovingly accept, listen to, and serve all in the Spirit of Jesus.

Children and Youth