November 30 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 28, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Sunday, November 30, 2025

Dear Families,

Happy Thanksgiving week! We are so grateful to be in ministry together at ORUCC. This coming Sunday is the first week of Advent. There will be a special all-ages faith formation gathering at 9:00 a.m. Please read below for details about this, and other upcoming events.

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Supported Childcare 8:30-11:30 AM

This service allows parents of children ages 0-5 to socialize and engage in the service, but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well. Jade will be on hand to assist and play with young children.

Intergenerational Faith Formation 9:00 a.m.:

All are welcome to come to an all-ages faith formation event for the first Sunday of Advent! Together we will share in some faith reflection led by Julie M. and conversation while we make special Christmas Tree ornaments to bring home. This will be in place of regular children’s, youth, and adult faith formation for this Sunday.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections: Children participating in the Christmas Eve service will rehearse from 10-11 am. Please note that children will not attend worship, but will begin downstairs with Julie. We might need 75 min to get through all the material. Your patience and flexibility as we move through this season is appreciated! Anyone not participating in Christmas Eve is still invited to stay in worship or visit the Crossroads with a caregiver. For more information about our Christmas Eve Program or to sign your child up, please please do so HERE.

TRU Function: will begin their preparations for the Christmas Eve service at with practice from 10:00-Noon on Sunday.

All are Welcome at Family Game Night!

Grab a friend, bring a game and a snack to share.

Guardians are responsible for the supervision of their own children at this event as we all play together!

Youth Service Trip Announcement and Fundraiser Cookie Sale Info

Our youth service trip next summer will be to Detroit, MI, July 12-18, 2026 with an organization called Motown Mission! Youth entering 8th grade through high school graduation are eligible for this trip. Please see this document for more information, and contact Pastor Kate if your youth would like to participate. A deposit of $100 is due by December 7 to secure your spot.

All participating youth are expected to take part in the Cookie Sale, our first fundraiser, on December 14th. Please see this document for more information. Additionally, ORUCC youth are invited to a Cookie Baking Party on December 12th! More information and RSVP here.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

November 30, Intergenerational Faith Formation at 9 am: Children and adults of all ages are invited to join together in Friendship Hall to begin the Advent season together. We’ll reflect on the story of Mary’s Song and engage in hands on crafts and conversation.
December 5, Family Game Night, 6:00-8:00 p.m.: Bring a game, a friend, and/or a dish to share with your fellow church families. Kids from elementary age through high school are invited to attend with their adults. We’ll play games and socialize over a very informal potluck in Friendship Hall.
December 7, Parents Together Peer Support Group, 9:00 a.m.: Raising kids is hard work, full of joy and challenge. Need some community support? Parents are invited to come together for a peer-led parents’ support group in the Oscar Romero room, facilitated by Claire Purkis and Joanna Beilman-Dulin.
December 14, Crafty Sunday, 8:15-9:00
December 12, Youth Service Trip Cookie Baking Party: See info here!
December 14, Cookie Sale Fundraiser: Youth participating in the 2026 Service Trip are expected to participate in this fundraiser. Please see more info here.

Home Prayer for the Week:

You are invited to use this prayer with your family to help deepen your faith together. Times you might consider sharing this prayer include before bedtime, at mealtime, or any other regular connecting moment you share with your child(ren). Does your family have a prayer practice or a favorite prayer? If you are comfortable sharing, please EMAIL JULIE, and your family’s prayer will be featured here.

Thanksgiving Day

For a delicious meal to fill our tummies,

we say thank you.

For a warm home and a bed to sleep in,

we say thank you.

For family and friends,

we say thank you.

For air to breathe and water to drink,

we say thank you.

Fro sun and moon and wind and rain,

we say thank you.

For this special day of celebration,

we say thank you.

Thank you, God.

Thank you.

-from Prayers for Faithful Families, by Traci Smith

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

November 23 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 19, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Sunday, November 23, 2025

Dear Families,

Below you’ll find helpful information for events coming up this Sunday and the few weeks ahead, including an announcement about our 2026 Youth Service Trip.

Pastor Kate and 4 youth will be away attending a Middle School faith retreat at Daycholah Center this weekend, but there are many other exciting events happening for kids of all ages at ORUCC this Sunday!

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery Care (Up to Age 5) 8:30-11:30 AM

Nursery Care with Abby and Avery is available for children 6 months to 5 years old in the Frances Room.

All Children and Youth (PreK-HS): Bridges Room

This Sunday, all ages will gather together for a few songs and to hear the story, “New Clothes and A New Song,” from Colossians 3:10-17. Following the reflection, children and youth will have the opportunity to write cards of hope and care to Trans individuals in the community and to prepare materials for our annual gift giving tree. Julie M., Barbara S., and Kellie M. will guide the group in the experience.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections: Children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Music Room (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Room) for Music Connections after Children’s Time in worship.This Sunday, we’ll join together for a preview of the material we’ll develop further for our Christmas Eve service. Older youth may participate in Music Connections as a helper. If your child wishes to be a helper, please connect with Julie to chat about expectations. We are in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer this week. Can you help? Sign up here.

TRU Function: Our youth band will perform in worship this Sunday! Band members are expected to arrive at 8:30 a.m. for set up and practice. Please stay afterwards to help with tear down as well. TRU Function is led by Rob Martens.

Youth Service Trip Announcement and Fundraiser Cookie Sale Info

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

November 30, Intergenerational Faith Formation at 9 am: Children and adults of all ages are invited to join together in Friendship Hall to begin the Advent season together. We’ll reflect on the story of Mary’s Song and engage in hands on crafts and conversation.
December 5, Family Game Night, 6:00-8:00 p.m.: Bring a game, a friend, and/or a dish to share with your fellow church families. Kids from elementary age through high school are invited to attend with their adults. We’ll play games and socialize over a very informal potluck in Friendship Hall.
December 7, Parents Together Peer Support Group, 9:00 a.m.: Raising kids is hard work, full of joy and challenge. Need some community support? Parents are invited to come together for a peer-led parents’ support group in the Oscar Romero room, facilitated by Claire Purkis and Joanna Beilman-Dulin.
December 12, Youth Service Trip Cookie Baking Party: See info here!
December 14, Cookie Sale Fundraiser: Youth participating in the 2026 Service Trip are expected to participate in this fundraiser. Please see more info here.

At Orchard Ridge, We are Spiritually Alive!

Crafty Sunday – November 9

Seven eager crafters arrived early to church on Sunday to creatively draw, knit, crochet, collage, and create animals out of tin foil. Does your child or youth like to create art freely? Save the date for our next Crafty Sunday on December 14 at 8:15 am.

Home Prayer for the Week:

A Prayer for When You Feel Upset

God, I don’t feel happy today.

I’m sad

or mad

or tired.

Be near to me as I breathe in

and breathe out.

I feel fresh air in my lungs.

I know these feelings won’t last forever.

I pray they soon fade away.

In and out I breathe.

Hard feelings don’t last forever.

-from Little Prayers for Everyday Life, by Traci Smith

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

November 16 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 12, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Sunday, November 16, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this week! Below you’ll find helpful information for events coming up this Sunday and the few weeks ahead, including an announcement about our 2026 Youth Service Trip.

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery Care (Up to Age 5) 8:30-11:30 AM

Nursery Care with Abby and Jade is available for children 6 months to 5 years old in the Frances Room.

Peace Circle (PreK-5th Grade) 9:00-9:50 AM:

Children in PreK-5th Grade will meet in the Ruby Bridges Room. This Sunday, the children will continue their exploration of the story, “From Prison to Palace,” from the book of Genesis, about Joseph and his dreams. Following the story, the children are invited to engage with and go deeper with multi-sensory stations. We’ll close in prayer. Josie G. and Jadyn G. will lead the children in the experience.

Echo the Story (Middle School) will gather in the Anne Frank Room to journey through the main stories and themes of the bible using a curriculum that invites questions and creative engagement. This week, we’ll look deeper at the text from Joshua 2-4, 7 (“Promised Land”), ask questions, journal, draw, and reflect. Kristin M. and Hal E. will guide the group in the discussion.

Teen Text (High School) will gather in the Dorothy Day room. This group will be using “Teen Text,” a progressive Christian Bible study resource that guides teens to reflect together in discussion on the lectionary scripture texts associated with each Sunday. This group will be guided by Al B. Gretchen F. this week.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections: Will NOT meet this Sunday. See you back again on November 23. Children are invited to stay in worship this Sunday.

TRU Function: Our youth band will practice from 10:00 a.m.-Noon . TRU Function leads worship on the fourth Sunday each month. TRU Function is led by Rob Martens.

Youth Service Trip Announcement!

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

November 30, Intergenerational Faith Formation at 9 am: Children and adults of all ages are invited to join together in Friendship Hall to begin the Advent season together. We’ll reflect on the story of Mary’s Song and engage in hands on crafts and conversation.
December 5, Family Game Night, 6:00-8:00 p.m.: Bring a game, a friend, and/or a dish to share with your fellow church families. Kids from elementary age through high school are invited to attend with their adults. We’ll play games and socialize over a very informal potluck in Friendship Hall.
December 7, Parents Together Peer Support Group, 9:00 a.m.: Raising kids is hard work, full of joy and challenge. Need some community support? Parents are invited to come together for a peer-led parents’ support group in the Oscar Romero room, facilitated by Claire Purkis and Joanna Beilman-Dulin.
December 14 Cookie Sale: Youth participating in the 2026 Service Trip are expected to participate in this fundraiser. Mark your calendars now, more details to come!

At Orchard Ridge, We are Spiritually Alive!

Crafty Sunday – November 9

Home Prayer for the Week:

Hands On Building Prayer

Take turns stacking blocks or Lego bricks.

Each time you add a block,

pray for a person or situation

-from The Peace Table, A Storybook Bible

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

November 9 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 5, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Sunday, November 9, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this week!

Friday, all are welcome to attend our monthly Family Game Night in Friendship Hall from 6:00-8:00 pm.

Sunday, children and youth are invited to join Julie for Crafty Sunday in the Johnson Room from 8:15-9:00 am.

Also on Sunday, parents are invited to join Julie at 9:15 in the downstairs Bonhoeffer Room for an informational meeting about our Christmas Eve service.

*See below for more information on these events.*

Last, we are in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer for Music Connections this week. Can you help? Sign up here.

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery Care (Up to Age 5) 8:30-11:30 AM

Nursery Care with Avery and Abby is available for children 6 months to 5 years old in the Frances Room.

Peace Circle (PreK-5th Grade) 9:00-9:50 AM:

Children in PreK-5th Grade will meet in the Ruby Bridges Room. This Sunday, the children will continue their exploration of the story, “A New Creation,” from the book of Revelation. Following the story, the children are invited to engage with and go deeper with multi-sensory stations. We’ll close in prayer. Josie G. and Jadyn G. will lead the children in the experience.

Echo the Story (Middle School) will gather in the Anne Frank Room to journey through the main stories and themes of the bible using a curriculum that invites questions and creative engagement. This week, we’ll look deeper at the text from Exodus 16, Numbers 13-14, Deuteronomy 29-31 (“Wandering”), ask questions, journal, draw, and reflect. Kellie M. and Becky E. will guide the group in the discussion.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections: Children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Music Room (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Room) for Music Connections after Children’s Time in worship.This Sunday, we’ll join together for movement and xylophone play. Older youth may participate in Music Connections as a helper. If your child wishes to be a helper, please connect with Julie to chat about expectations. We are in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer this week. Can you help? Sign up here.

TRU Function: Our youth band will practice from 10:00 a.m.-Noon . TRU Function leads worship on the fourth Sunday each month. TRU Function is led by Rob Martens.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

November 7, 6:00-8:00 pm, Family Game Night: Bring a game, a friend, and/or a dish to share with your fellow church families. Kids from elementary age through high school are invited to attend with their adults. We’ll play games and socialize over a very informal potluck in Friendship Hall.

November 9, 8:15-9:00 “Crafty Sunday”: Children of all ages are invited to craft in the William Johnson Room. All are welcome to bring a current project or start a new project using the materials we have on hand.

November 9, Christmas Eve Parent Information Meeting, 9:15 am: Hopefully, you received an email with information about this year’s Christmas Eve service. If not, you can find all the details HERE or reach out to Julie. If your child wishes to participate in the service, please plan to attend a brief parent meeting in the downstairs Bonhoeffer Room at 9:15 to review the schedule and expectations.

November 21-22, Middle School Retreat at Daycholah Center: The Wisconsin Conference UCC is offering a middle school faith retreat for students in 6th-8th grade at Daycholah Center. Pastor Kate will be attending with some youth from ORUCC. Any 6th-8th graders are welcomed to register here. Scholarships are available upon request. Please let Pastor Kate know if your youth is interested so that we make sure we have enough adult chaperones for our group.

At Orchard Ridge, We are Spiritually Alive!

Home Prayer for the Week:

A Prayer for Bedtime

Take my hand and lead me,

Won’t you be my guide?

I can see more clearly,

When you are by my side.

At night when I am resting,

Watch over me, I pray.

I will walk with you again,

When darkness fades away.

-From Prayer for Bedtime, Author Unknown

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

November 2 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on October 29, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Sunday, November 2, 2025

*Daylight Savings Time End –

Set your clocks one hour back*

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this week!

See below for more information and fun events coming up.

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery Care (Up to Age 5) 8:30-11:30 AM

Nursery Care with Avery and Abby are available for children 6 months to 5 years old in the Frances Room.

Peace Circle (PreK-5th Grade) 9:00-9:50 AM:

Children in PreK-5th Grade will meet in the Ruby Bridges Room. This Sunday, the children will hear the story, “A New Creation,” from the book of Revelation. Following the story, the children are invited to engage with and go deeper with multi-sensory stations. We’ll close in prayer. Josie G. and Megan P. will lead the children in the experience.

Echo the Story (Middle School) will gather in the Anne Frank Room to journey through the main stories and themes of the bible using a curriculum that invites questions and creative engagement. This week, we’ll look deeper at the text from Exodus 19-20, 24-26, 32-40 (“Commands”), ask questions, journal, draw, and reflect. Kristin M. and Barbara S. will guide the group in the discussion.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections: will NOT meet this week. See you again on November 9!

TRU Function: Our youth band will practice from 10:00 a.m.-Noon . TRU Function leads worship on the fourth Sunday each month. TRU Function is led by Rob Martens.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

November 2, 9:00 a.m. “Parents Together” Support Group: Raising kids is hard work, full of joy and challenge. Need some community support? Parents are invited to come together for a peer-led parents’ support group in the Oscar Romero room, facilitated by Claire Purkis and Joanna Beilman-Dulin.

At Orchard Ridge, We are Spiritually Alive!

Crafty Sunday

Eight children and youth gathered in the Ruby Bridges on Sunday morning, October 12 at 8:15 am, to craft together. Some brought a project, others began a new project. Collage, drawing, watercolor painting, crocheting, knitting, beading, and creative writing were done in tandem. The mood was light and peaceful with many commenting how happy they felt in the space. We’ll gather again for more crafting on November 9.

Pen Pal Meet-up

Over the summer, thirty-two adults and children/youth participated in our inaugural pen pal program. Pen Pals were encouraged to send handwritten messages to each other throughout the summer. Messages ranged from drawings, to postcards, to lengthy letters. Those who participated shared that experience was positive and joyful. Some have continued the connection into the fall and are still writing to each other!

On Sunday, October 19, Pen Pals had the opportunity to meet face-to-face in Friendship Hall for lemonade and conversation.

Home Prayer for the Week:

Creator God, as the light shifts, remind me of Your constant presence.

Help me to embrace new beginnings

and use the gift of time to draw closer to You

no matter how the clocks change.

-Unknown

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

October 26 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on October 24, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Sunday, October 26, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this week!

TONIGHT! Our annual bonfire and corn maze gathering at Treinen Farm is this Friday, 10/24. We have the bonfire pit beginning at 6:00 p.m. See below for more details.

On Sunday, all children and youth will have the opportunity to walk a labyrinth and participate in other mindfulness activities during the 9 am Faith Formation hour.

Music Connections is in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer this week. Can you help? Sign up here.

In worship we celebrate our 2025 Youth Service trip to Kansas City! Following worship, any youth and their guardians who are interested in Service Trip 2026 are invited to meet with Pastor Kate for an info session after worship.

See below for more information and fun events coming up.

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery Care (Up to Age 5) 8:30-11:30 AM

Nursery Care with Avery and Jade is available for children 6 months to 5 years old in the Frances Room.

ALL Children and Youth (PreK-HS) are invited to take part in a Labyrinth walk and contemplative spiritual practice stations. We’ll first gather together in the Ruby Bridges Room. After a brief opening conversation and reflection on Mark 12:28-34, small groups of children and youth will have the opportunity to travel through our small labyrinth in the Anne Frank Room. Those waiting to walk the labyrinth will be invited to freely explore artistic, tactile, and mindfulness stations.

Pastor Kate will meet with youth involved in the worship service during the 9:00 hour.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections: Children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Music Room (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Room) for Music Connections after Children’s Time in worship. This Sunday, we’ll join together for movement and drumming. Older youth may participate in Music Connections as a helper. If your child wishes to be a helper, please connect with Julie to chat about expectations. We are in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer this week. Can you help? Sign up here.

TRU Function: TRU Function plays in worship this Sunday! Please arrive ready to play at 8:30 a.m.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

October 24 Evening, Treinen Farm Bonfire: All ages welcome at this family-friendly event held at Treinen Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Lodi. Our bonfire time is set for 6:00 p.m., but families are encouraged to come earlier to enjoy the many other opportunities for farm fun at Treinen. ORUCC will rent a bonfire circle and provide S’more supplies, but each family is responsible for purchasing their own tickets for all ages 3+. Tickets can be purchased online ahead of time for a discount, or at the door.

October 26, Service Trip Celebration in Worship and Info Session: We will have the opportunity to share about our experience in Kansas City this Sunday! This will also include TRU Function’s first full-band performance in worship, followed by a 2026 Service Trip Info Session at 11:15 following worship.

November 9, Christmas Eve Parent Information Meeting, 9:15 am: Soon, you’ll receive information about this year’s Christmas Eve service. If your child wishes to participate in the service, please plan to attend a brief parent meeting in the downstairs Bonhoeffer Room at 9:15 to review the schedule and expectations.

At Orchard Ridge, We are Spiritually Alive!

Crafty Sunday

Pen Pal Meet-up

On Sunday, October 19, Pen Pals had the opportunity to meet face-to-face in Friendship Hall for lemonade and conversation.

Home Prayer for the Week:

Creator of the loving heart, may mine be loving too,

Creator of the gentle hands, may mine be gentle too.

Creator of the willing feet, may mine be willing too,

So that I may grow more like you

In all I say and do.

From “The Way of the Child,” by Wynn McGregor

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

October 19 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on October 15, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Sunday, October 19, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday!

This Sunday after worship, Summer Pen Pals are invited to gather together in Friendship Hall for lemonade and a light snack together after worship. Everyone who participated for the summer experience is welcome – even if your pen pal is not in attendance.

Faith Formation for all children and youth meets at 9:00 a.m. See below for more information and fun events coming up!

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery Care (Up to Age 5) 8:30-11:30 AM

Nursery Care with Abby and Avery is available for children 6 months to 5 years old in the Frances Room.

Peace Circle (PreK-5th Grade) 9:00-9:50 AM:

Children in PreK-5th Grade will begin in the Ruby Bridges Room at 9 am for Music with Julie. Following the music, the children will hear the story, “A New Creation,” from the book of Revelation. Following the story, the children are invited to engage with and go deeper with multi-sensory stations. We’ll close in prayer. Josie G. and Jadyn G. will lead the children in the experience.

Echo the Story (Middle School) will gather in the Anne Frank Room to journey through the main stories and themes of the bible using a curriculum that invites questions and creative engagement.

This week, we’ll look deeper at the text from Exodus 1-5, 7-15 (“Exodus”), ask questions, journal, draw, and reflect. Kristin M. and Becky E. will guide the group in the discussion.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections: Children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Music Room (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Room) for Music Connections after Children’s Time in worship. This Sunday, we’ll join together for movement and drumming. The children will also help to set up for the pen pal gathering in Friendship Hall after worship. Older youth may participate in Music Connections as a helper. If your child wishes to be a helper, please connect with Julie to chat about expectations. Eric T. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

TRU Function: Our youth band will practice from 10:00 a.m.-Noon . TRU Function leads worship on the fourth Sunday each month. TRU Function is led by Rob Martens.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

THIS SUNDAY October 19, 11:15 a.m., Pen Pal Meet-Up: If you participated in the summer pen pal program, this is a time to meet your pen pal IN PERSON while enjoying some lemonade together after worship.

October 24 Evening, Treinen Farms Bonfire: All ages welcome at this family-friendly event held at Treinen Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Lodi. ORUCC will rent a bonfire circle and provide S’more supplies, but each family is responsible for purchasing their own tickets for all ages 3+. Tickets can be purchased online ahead of time for a discount, or at the door. Our group bonfire reservation begins at 7:00 p.m., but families are encouraged to come earlier to enjoy the many other opportunities for farm fun at Treinen. Scholarships are available through the church, so let Pastor Kate know if that would help your family be able to attend.

November 21-22, Middle School Retreat at Daycholah Center: The Wisconsin Conference UCC is offering a middle school faith retreat for students in 6th-8th grade at Daycholah Center. Pastor Kate will be attending with some youth from ORUCC. Any 6th-8th graders are welcomed to register here, early bird pricing available until October 17th! Scholarships are available upon request. Please let Pastor Kate know if your youth is interested so that we make sure we have enough adult chaperones for our group.

At Orchard Ridge, We are Spiritually Alive!

This fall, our Elementary Faith Formation group, “Peace Circle,” is exploring the beauty of and power of creation and our surrounding environment. On Sunday, September 28, the children took a walk around the property to notice our many trees, bushes, and plants. Then, on October 5, we took a deeper look at those plants with magnifying glasses. Along the way, we discussed what these plants need to grow and thrive, such as sunlight, water, wind, and pollinators. True joy was unleashed when the children discovered the milkweed pods and happily unleashed the soft strands into the air sending prayers for them to be future homes for pollinators.

Crafty Sunday

Home Prayer for the Week:

God, you hear me when I pray.

Your love is never far away.

I can pray if I’m happy or lonely or sad.

I can pray when I’m tired or worried or mad.

I can pray every day and every season.

I can even pray without a reason!

from Little Prayers for Everyday Life, by Traci Smith

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

October 12 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on October 8, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Sunday, October 12, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday!

This week is “Crafty Sunday.” Children of all ages are invited to craft in the William Johnson Room from 8:15-9:00 a.m. All are welcome to bring a current project or start a new project using the materials we have on hand.

Faith Formation for all children and youth meets at 9:00 a.m. See below for more information and fun events coming up!

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery Care (Up to Age 5) 8:30-11:30 AM

Nursery Care with Abby and Avery is available for children 6 months to 5 years old in the Frances Room.

Peace Circle (PreK-5th Grade) 9:00-9:50 AM:

Children in PreK-5th Grade will begin in the Ruby Bridges Room at 9 am for Music with Julie. Following the music, the children will continue their exploration of “The Parable of the Mustard Seed” from Matthew 13:31-32. Following the story, the children are invited to engage with and go deeper with multi-sensory stations. We’ll close in prayer. Josie G. and Jadyn G. will lead the children in the experience.

New this year: At 9:50, Peace Circle children will travel together to the sanctuary. We’ll sit together as a group on the east side of the building (parking lot side). Your child is, of course, welcome to sit with you in a different area of the sanctuary. We intend to regularly encourage the children to experience the ritual of service – the opening prayers, congregational songs, and anthems. Children will either go to Music Connections or return to sit with their families after the Time for Children.

Echo the Story (Middle School) will gather in the Anne Frank Room to journey through the main stories and themes of the bible using a curriculum that invites questions and creative engagement.

This week, we’ll look deeper at the text from Genesis 37; 39-47 (“Joseph”), ask questions, journal, draw, and reflect. Barbara S. and Becky E. will guide the group in the discussion.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections: Children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Music Room (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Room) for Music Connections after Children’s Time in worship. This Sunday, we’ll join together for movement and xylophone play. Older youth may participate in Music Connections as a helper. If your child wishes to be a helper, please connect with Julie to chat about expectations. Devin C. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

TRU Function: Our youth band will practice from 10:00 a.m.-Noon . TRU Function leads worship on the fourth Sunday each month. TRU Function is led by Rob Martens.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

October 12, 8:15-9:00 “Crafty Sunday” : Children of all ages are invited to craft in the William Johnson Room. All are welcome to bring a current project or start a new project using the materials we have on hand.

October 19, 11:15 a.m., Pen Pal Meet-Up: If you participated in the summer pen pal program, this is a time to meet your pen pal IN PERSON while enjoying some lemonade together after worship.

October 24, (evening start time TBD), Treinen Farms Bonfire: All ages welcome at this family-friendly event held at Treinen Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Lodi. ORUCC will rent a bonfire circle and provide S’more supplies, but each family is responsible for purchasing their own tickets for all ages 3+. Tickets can be purchased online ahead of time for a discount, or at the door. Scholarships are available through the church, so let Pastor Kate know if that would help your family be able to attend.

October 26: Service Trip Celebration in Worship and Info Session: We will have the opportunity to share about our experience in Kansas City this Sunday! This will also include TRU Function’s first full-band performance in worship, followed by a 2026 Service Trip Info Session at 11:15 following worship.

At Orchard Ridge, We are Spiritually Alive!

This fall, our Elementary Faith Formation group, “Peace Circle,” is exploring the beauty of and power of creation and our surrounding environment. On Sunday, September 28, the children took a walk around the property to notice our many trees, bushes, and plants. Then, on October 5, we took a deeper look at those plants with magnifying glasses. Along the way, we discussed what these plants need to grow and thrive, such as sunlight, water, wind, and pollinators. True joy was unleashed when the children discovered the milkweed pods and happily unleashed the soft strands into the air sending prayers for them to be future homes for pollinators.

Home Prayer for the Week:

God of life, we are your beloved children.

Help us to grow, and grow, and grow, and grow to become more like you.

We praise you for your goodness and love. Amen.

From Path to Peace with Creation Curriculum

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

September 28 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on September 24, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Sunday, September 28, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday! This week’s service will feature “TruFunction Lite,” a smaller group of performers. Music Connections will not meet this week. Children are invited to join their families in the sanctuary after Faith Formation to support TruFunction.

After worship, all are invited to assist in various indoor and outdoor tasks around the church for “Worship and Work.” Lunch is provided for everyone – regardless of your availability to assist in projects.

We are in great need of adults and older teens to be Safe Sanctuary Volunteers for Music Connections. In agreement with our church’s Safe Sanctuary policy, two adults must be present in a room when working with children. Can you help? Sign up to volunteer. No prior music experience is needed.

Faith Formation for all children and youth meets at 9:00 a.m. This year, we have three classrooms: Peace Circle (Pre-K to 5^th grade), Echo the Story (Middle School), and Teen Text (High School). Nursery care is available for younger children.

If you have never filled out the Sunday School Participant Google Form for your child, please do so. This is especially important so we know if your child has any dietary restrictions or food allergies. If there are any changes or things we should know about, please edit your submission from last year or fill out the form again.

Please read on for more details about all of these events. We trust that this will be another joy-filled, meaningful year. We can’t wait to see you soon!

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery (Up to Age 5) 8:30-11:30 AM

Nursery Care is available for children 6 months to 5 years old in the Frances Room. Be sure to pop in and introduce yourself to our Nursery Care Workers, Abby and Avery!

Peace Circle (PreK-5th Grade) 9:00-9:50 AM:

Children in PreK-5th Grade will begin in the Ruby Bridges Room at 9 am for Music with Josie and Jadyn. Following the music, the children will continue their reflection of the story “Job and the Whirlwind” from the Book of Job. This week, the children will travel outdoors to notice and observe the many plants and trees surrounding our property. Later, they’ll move back indoors to engage in reflective stations and prayer. Josie G. and Jadyn G. will lead the children in the experience.

Echo the Story (Middle School) will gather in the Anne Frank Room to journey through the main stories and themes of the bible using a curriculum that invites questions and creative engagement.

This week, we’ll look deeper at the text from Genesis 12-13, 15-28, and 21 (“Promise,” stories of God’s covenant after the flood, Abram and Sarai, and Hagar), ask questions, journal, draw, and reflect. Kristin M. and Barbara S. will guide the group in the discussion.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections will not meet this week. Instead, children are welcome their families in the sanctuary after Faith Formation to support TruFunction.

TRU Function will not hold regualar practice this Sunday.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

October 3, 6:00-8:00 pm, Family Game Night: Bring a game, a friend, and/or a dish to share with your fellow church families. Kids from elementary age through high school are invited to attend with their adults. We’ll play games and socialize over a very informal potluck in Friendship Hall.

October 5, 9:00-9:50, Parents Together: Raising kids is hard work, full of joy and challenge. Need some community support? Parents and caregivers are invited to come together for a peer-led parents’ support group at 9:00 am in the Oscar Romero Room, facilitated by Claire Purkis and Joanna Beilman-Dulin.

October 19, 11:15 a.m., Pen Pal Meet-Up: If you participated in the summer pen pal program, this is a time to meet your pen pal IN PERSON while enjoying some lemonade together after worship.

Peace Table Storybook Bible – On Sale

During the Children’s Moment on September 14, Pastor Kate showcased the Peace Table Storybook Bible, which our elementary children regularly reference in Faith Formation. For the month of September, this Bible is 20% off. If you are interested in a copy for your family, you are invited to purchase one HERE.

“This comprehensive storybook includes biblically faithful retellings of 140 Bible stories. Stunning artwork from 30 illustrators makes this a feast for the eyes. Along with each Bible story, there are prayer prompts, questions, and action ideas to guide reflection and conversation. Twelve “Peace Paths” allow children to “choose their own adventure” through the book, exploring how peace themes are woven throughout the Old and New Testaments. A resource section includes ideas for how to experience peace with God, self, others, and creation, as well as maps, Bible background information, interactive ways to pray, and prayers for many occasions. The Peace Table is an excellent resource for families and faith communities who want their children to love Jesus, grow in faith, and become peacemakers who change the world!”

Home Prayer for the Week:

Blessing for Leaving Home

(Rest your hand gently on the person’s head or shoulder)

May God fill you with love.

May God surprise you with joy.

May God bless you with peace.

-From The Peace Table, A Storybook Bible

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

September 21 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on September 17, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Sunday, September 21, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday!

Please read on for more details about all of these events. We trust that this will be another joy-filled, meaningful year. We can’t wait to see you soon!

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery (Up to Age 5) 8:30-11:30 AM

Nursery Care is available for children 6 months to 5 years old in the Frances Room. Be sure to pop in and introduce yourself to our Nursery Care Workers, Abby and Avery!

Peace Circle (PreK-5th Grade) 9:00-9:50 AM:

Children in PreK-5th Grade will begin in the Ruby Bridges Room at 9 am for Music with Julie. Following the music, the children will hear and reflect upon the story “Job and the Whirlwind” from the Book of Job. Following the story, the children are invited to engage with and go deeper with multi-sensory stations. We’ll close in prayer. Josie G. and Jadyn G. will lead the children in the experience.

Echo the Story (Middle School) will gather in the Anne Frank Room to journey through the main stories and themes of the bible using a curriculum that invites questions and creative engagement.

This week, we’ll look deeper at the text from Genesis 6-9 (“Flood”), ask questions, journal, draw, and reflect. Kristin M. and Hal E. will guide the group in the discussion.

Music Opportunities

TRU Function: Our youth band will practice from 10:00 a.m.-Noon. TRU Function leads worship on the fourth Sunday each month. TRU Function is led by Rob Martens and is open by audition to youth in grades 7th-12th.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

October 19, 11:15 a.m., Pen Pal Meet-Up: If you participated in the summer pen pal program, this is a time to meet your pen pal IN PERSON while enjoying some lemonade together after worship.

Peace Table Storybook Bible – On Sale

Home Prayer for the Week:

Evening Prayer

Thank you for the dark of night,

for the stars that shine so bright.

Thank you for the rising moon.

I know that sleep is coming soon.

-From The Peace Table, A Storybook Bible

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

September 14 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on September 10, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Sunday, September 14, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday!

This Sunday morning from 8:15-9:00 we have a new fellowship opportunity: “Crafty Sunday”! Children of all ages are invited to craft in the William Johnson Room. All are welcome to bring a current project or start a new project using the materials we have on hand.

Faith Formation for all children and youth meets at 9:00 a.m. This year we have three classrooms: Peace Circle (Pre-K to 5^th grade), Echo the Story (Middle School), and Teen Text (High School). Nursery care is available for younger children.

Please read on for more details about all of these events. We trust that this will be another joy-filled, meaningful year. We can’t wait to see you soon!

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery (Up to Age 5) 8:30-11:30 AM

Nursery Care is available for children 6 months to 5 years old in the Frances Room. Be sure to pop in and introduce yourself to our Nursery Care Workers, Abby and Avery!

Peace Circle (PreK-5th Grade) 9:00-9:50 AM:

Children in PreK-5th Grade will begin in the Ruby Bridges Room at 9 am for Music with Julie. Following the music, the children will hear and reflect upon the story “Wolves and Lambs” from Isaiah 65:17–25. Following the story, the children are invited to engage with and go deeper with multi-sensory stations. We’ll close with a focused listening exercise and prayer. Josie G. and Jadyn G. will lead the children in the experience.

Echo the Story (Middle School) will gather in the Anne Frank Room to journey through the main stories and themes of the bible using a curriculum which invites questions and creative engagement.

This week, we’ll look deeper at the text from Geneis 3-4 (“Rebellion” stories of Adam and Eve and Cain and Abel), ask questions, journal, draw, and reflect. Throughout the year, Kristin M., Hal E., Barbara S., Becky E., and Kellie M. will guide the group.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections: Children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Music Room (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Room) for Music Connections after Children’s Time in worship. This Sunday, we’ll join together for xylophone play. Older youth may participate in Music Connections as a helper. If your child wishes to be a helper, please connect with Julie to chat about expectations. In agreement with our church’s Safe Sanctuary policy, two adults must be present in a room when working with children.We are in need of a Safe Sanctuary Volunteer this week. Can you help? Sign up to volunteer.

TRU Function: Our youth band will practice from 10:00 a.m.-Noon on Sundays beginning this week. TRU Function leads worship on the fourth Sunday each month. TRU Function is led by Rob Martens.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

September 14, 8:15-9:00 “Crafty Sunday” : Children of all ages are invited to craft in the William Johnson Room. All are welcome to bring a current project or start a new project using the materials we have on hand.

October 19, 11:15 a.m., Pen Pal Meet-Up: If you participated in the summer pen pal program, this is a time to meet your pen pal IN PERSON while enjoying some lemonade together after worship.

Home Prayer for the Week:

Morning Prayer

God, I woke up feeling___________

I don’t know what this day will bring.

Will I laugh, yell, cry, or sing?

I’m glad you know everything.

-From The Peace Table, A Storybook Bible

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

September 7 Children and Youth Faith Formation Kick Off

Orchard Ridge UCC on September 3, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Welcome Back!

Fall 2025

Welcome back! Can you believe it is almost that time of year again? We hope you had a great summer, and we are excited to kick-off the 2025-26 faith formation programming year on September 7th! Family Game Night also resumes Friday, September 5 (see below for details).

Faith Formation for all children and youth will be at 9:00 a.m. This year we will have three classrooms: Peace Circle (Pre-K to 5^th grade), Echo the Story (Middle School), and Teen Text (High School). Nursery care will be available for younger children.

Our music programs for kids will resume this fall as well. Music Connections for children 2^nd grade-6^th grade will begin on September 7^th, and our youth band, TRU Function, will begin practicing September 14^th.

Welcome Back Sunday, September 7^th, will include an opportunity for a “Blessing of the Backpacks” during the start of worship. Bring your school bag to church to receive a blessing during Children’s Time!

We are also hosting a supply drive to bless two of our neighborhood schools, Orchard Ridge Elementary and Anana Elementary. We are collecting sanitizing wipes, boxes of tissues, and shelf-stable snacks. Please consider adding a few extra to your back-to-school shopping cart and bring these offerings along on September 7^th.

Immediately after worship, we will reconnect at the All-Church Picnic, sponsored by the Ministry of Congregational Life and our Hospitality Mission Team. All are welcome!

Please fill out the Sunday School Participant Google Form for your child. This is especially important to know about your child’s dietary restrictions or food allergies, or any significant changes from last year’s participation.

Please read on for more details about all of these events. We trust that this will be another joy-filled, meaningful year. We can’t wait to see you soon!

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery (Up to Age 5) 8:30-11:30 AM

Nursery Care is available for children 6 months to 5 years old in the St. Francis room . Be sure to pop in and introduce yourself to our Nursery Care Workers, Abby and Avery!

Peace Circle (Pre-K-5th Grade) 9:00-9:50 AM:

Children PreK-5th Grade will begin in the Ruby Bridges Room at 9 am for Music with Julie. Following the music, the children will hear a story from Scripture and go deeper with themes introduced in the story engaging with multi-sensory stations. We’ll close with a focused listening exercise and prayer. Josie and Jadyn will lead the children in the experience.

Echo the Story (Middle School) will gather in the Anne Frank Room to journey through the main stories and themes of the bible using a curriculum which invites questions and creative engagement. We’ll look deeper at the text, ask questions, journal, draw, and reflect. Throughout the year, Kristin M., Hal E., Barbara S., Becky E., and Kellie M. will guide the group.

Welcome Back Sunday Worship & Picnic

September 7th Worship Details

During the “Time for Children,” anyone who is starting the school year (kids, teachers, and anyone working in education) will be invited to come forward with their “school bags” for a special blessing to start the year.

We will also bless the collected supplies for our neighborhood schools, Orchard Ridge Elementary and Anana Elementary: sanitizing wipes, tissue boxes, and individually wrapped snacks.

Following this blessing, children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Music Room (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Room) for Music Connections (see below). Younger children are invited to stay in worship, go to the nursery, or visit the Crossroads with a caregiver. Older children are welcome to remain in worship.

At the conclusion of worship, all are invited to the Welcome Back picnic, provided by the Ministry of Congregational Life and the Hospitality Mission Team. They are looking for volunteers! Please sign up here if you are interested in helping out.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections: Children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Music Room (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Room) for Music Connections after Children’s Time in worship. This Sunday, we’ll join together in a Drum Circle. Older youth may participate in Music Connections as a helper. If your child wishes to be a helper, please connect with Julie to chat about expectations. In agreement with our church’s Safe Sanctuary policy, two adults must be present in a room when working with children. Sign up to volunteer.

TRU Function: Our youth band will practice from 10:00 a.m.-Noon on Sundays beginning September 14th. Once a month, on Sundays when TRU Function performs in worship, the 9:00 hour will be “Breakfast Club,” a more relaxed fellowship opportunity available for all youth while TRU Function practices for worship. TRU Function is led by Rob Martens.

Connecting Together:

Family Game Night

Friday, September 5, 6-8 p.m.

Bring a game, a friend, and/or a dish to share with your fellow church families. Kids from elementary age through high school are invited to attend with their adults. We’ll play games and socialize over a very informal potluck in Friendship Hall. Game Night will resume on the first Friday of the month throughout the school year.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

September 8, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Service Trip Reunion Potluck: Service Trip participants and chaperones are invited to come together for a potluck in Friendship Hall to reminisce, reflect on the trip, and help Pastor Kate start to think about Service Trip 2026!

October 19, 11:15 a.m., Pen Pal Meet-Up: If you participated in the summer pen pal program, this is a time to meet your pen pal IN PERSON while enjoying some lemonade together after worship.

Home Prayer for the Week:

Back to School Prayer (to be read alongside a meal):

God of our work and our play, we thank you for time off from school and for more time with our family and friends.

We’re grateful for all the fun we’ve had, and all the fun we’ll continue to have as we see old friends make new ones, and learn of new things.

Bless us as we return to work and school, and thank you for keeping us safe.

May this food and the coming year nourish us! Amen.

Table talk: What is your favorite vacation memory? What are you most looking forward to about going back to school or work?

-From Peanut Butter and Jelly Prayers, by Julie B. Sevig

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

September 7 Children and Youth Faith Formation Kick Off

Orchard Ridge UCC on August 27, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Welcome Back!

Fall 2025

Welcome back! Can you believe it is almost that time of year again? We hope you had a great summer, and we are excited to kick-off the 2025-26 faith formation programming year on September 7th!

Faith Formation for all children and youth will be at 9:00 a.m. This year we will have three classrooms: Peace Circle (Pre-K to 5^th grade), Echo the Story (6^th-7^th grade), and Teen Text (8^th-12^th grade). Nursery care will be available for younger children.

We are also having a supply drive to bless two of our neighborhood schools, Orchard Ridge Elementary and Anana Elementary. We are collecting sanitizing wipes, boxes of tissues, and shelf-stable snacks. Please consider adding a few extra to your back-to-school shopping cart and bring these offerings along on September 7^th.

Immediately after worship, we will reconnect at the All-Church Picnic, sponsored by the Ministry of Congregational Life and our Hospitality Mission Team. All are welcome!

Please read on for more details about all of these events. We trust that this will be another joy-filled, meaningful year. We can’t wait to see you soon!

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery (Ages 1-5) 8:30-11:30 AM

Nursery Care is available for children 6 months to 5 years old in the St. Francis room . Be sure to pop in and introduce yourself to our Nursery Care Workers, Abby and Avery!

Peace Circle (Pre-K-5th Grade) 9:00-9:50 AM:

Echo the Story (Grades 6-7) will gather in the Anne Frank Room to journey through the main stories and themes of the bible using a curriculum which invites questions and creative engagement. We’ll look deeper at the text, ask questions, journal, draw, and reflect. Throughout the year, Kristin M., Hal E., Barbara S., Becky E., and Kellie M. will guide the group.

Teen Text (Grades 8-12) will gather in the Dorothy Day room. This group will be using “Teen Text,” a progressive Christian Bible study resource that guides teens to reflect together in discussion on the lectionary scripture texts associated with each Sunday. This group will be guided by Al B., Brian L., Rayelle B., and Gretchen F. throughout the year.

Welcome Back Sunday Worship & Picnic

September 7th Worship Details

We will also bless the collected supplies for our neighborhood schools, Orchard Ridge Elementary and Anana Elementary: sanitizing wipes, tissue boxes, and individually wrapped snacks.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections: Children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Music Room (Dietrich Bonhoeffer Room) for Music Connections after Children’s Time in worship. This Sunday, we’ll join together in a Drum Circle. Older youth may participate in Music Connections as a helper. If your child wishes to be a helper, please connect with Julie to chat about expectations. In agreement with our church’s Safe Sanctuary policy, two adults must be present in a room when working with children. Sign up to volunteer.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

October 19, 11:15 a.m., Pen Pal Meet-Up: If you participated in the summer pen pal program, this is a time to meet your pen pal IN PERSON while enjoying some lemonade together after worship.

Home Prayer for the Week:

Back to School Prayer (to be read alongside a meal):

God of our work and our play, we thank you for time off from school and for more time with our family and friends.

We’re grateful for all the fun we’ve had, and all the fun we’ll continue to have as we see old friends make new ones, and learn of new things.

Bless us as we return to work and school, and thank you for keeping us safe.

May this food and the coming year nourish us! Amen.

Table talk: What is your favorite vacation memory? What are you most looking forward to about going back to school or work?

-From Peanut Butter and Jelly Prayers, by Julie B. Sevig

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC July Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on August 1, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

August 2025

Dear Families,

We are officially in the home stretch! We hope you are savoring the last moments of summer and taking the time to squeeze in all that you enjoy. Perhaps one last trip to the pool, a walk to your favorite ice cream shop, a camping weekend, or an evening of stargazing. For the remainder of August, there will not be 9:00 a.m. faith formation, but there are still exciting things happening for kids at ORUCC!

And, mark your calendar for our fall “Back to Church” kick-off celebration on September 7. Join us that day for Nursery Care, 9 am Children and Youth Faith Formation, Music Connections, a special “blessing of the backpacks” during worship, AND an all church BBQ lunch! You’ll receive more information about all of these great opportunities at the end of the month.

Be sure to scroll down this email for a home prayer and to be kept in the know of upcoming events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Children’s Sunday

Summer Programming

There is no 9:00 a.m. faith formation or regular nursery care during the summer. Our children and youth music programs will also take a break (TRU Function and Music Connections).

However, throughout the summer there are special opportunities for children’s participation during 10:00 a.m. worship. On the 2nd and 4th Sundays, we will will have special events or “Kids in the Kitchen,” for children ages 5 years old and up (younger children my participate with a caregiver present). Kids in the Kitchen is an opportunity to hear a Bible story and have fellowship with other children and adult volunteers as the kids make a snack to share with the congregation following worship.

Throughout the summer, on the 1st and 3rd Sundays, we will have a nursery care provider available in the Crossroads to offer “supported childcare” for young ones.

August Events

August 3, Supported Childcare 9:30-11:30 in the Crossroads with Najma. This service allows parents of children ages 0-5 to socialize and engage in the service, but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well. This is also Najma’s last day. She is moving to Pittsburgh for her graduate studies in nursing. We’ll recognize her with a blessing and a prayer shawl during worship.

August 10, Kids in the Kitchen with Rachael and Marcia ”Kids in the Kitchen” is our yearly summer enrichment program. During worship, children ages 6 and older (ages 5 and younger must be accompanied by a caregiver) will be invited to hear a nature-themed story and make a snack to serve after worship.

August 17, Supported Childcare 9:30-11:30 in the Crossroads with Abby.

August 24, Kids in the Kitchen with Sara and Rachael.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

July 10th’s Intergenerational Family Picnic

On July 10th, about 20 friends from church braved the stormy skies to meet for a picnic at Garner Park. It was a lovely opportunity to get to know one another better, play hide-n-seek, and enjoy some popsicles!

Intergenerational Pen-Pals Project

If you signed up for our pen pals project this summer, be on the lookout in the mail for a letter from your partner. How are your letters going? Feel free to reach out to Julie or Kate if you need any assistance or letter-writing ideas.

Parents Together Support Group:

August 18th, 7:30 p.m. Online

The “Parents Together” peer-led support group will be offered in an online format on August 18th at 7:30 p.m., facilitated by Claire Purkis. Parents Together is an opportunity to share the struggles and joys of parenting kids in today’s world. All are welcome! Please use this google meet link. You can also connect with Claire for more info at [email protected]. We will resume in-person meetings in this fall, beginning September 7th at 9:00 a.m..

September Save the Dates!

Sunday, September 7: Welcome Back-to-Church! Faith formation, Blessing of the Backpacks, Music Connections, and All-Church picnic.
Sunday, September 7: Parents Together Peer Support at 9:00 a.m.
Monday, September 8: Service Trip Reunion Potluck
Sunday, September 14: TRU Function practice resumes

Home Prayer:

I thank You God for most this amazing day;

for the leaping greenly spirits of trees

and a blue true dream of sky;

and for everything

which is natural

which is infinite

which is yes

-ee cummings

Orchard Ridge UCC | Spiritually Alive, Joyfully Inclusive, Committed to Justice 1501 Gilbert Road | Madison, WI 53711 US

ORUCC July Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on July 2, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

July 2025

Dear Families,

We hope this email finds you well within the rhythm of summer. Perhaps you’ve been enjoying late nights, long days at the pool, and time with family, friends, and nature. Perhaps you are reading this while relaxing at Moon Beach with other ORUCC families. Or, perhaps your rhythm is a day-to-day adventure, and you are just focusing on the here and now.

Just as your family rhythms change in the warmer months, our children and youth programming enters a different rhythm as well. For the rest of the summer, we’ll be coming to your inbox once a month with updates. There is no 9:00 a.m. faith formation for the summer, but there are still exciting things happening for kids’ at ORUCC!

Please scroll down for a home prayer and to be kept in the know of upcoming events (including a family picnic next week at Garner Park!)

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Children’s Sunday

Summer Programming

There is no 9:00 a.m. faith formation or regular nursery care during the summer. Our children and youth music programs will also take a break (TRU Function and Music Connections).

Throughout the summer, on the 1st and 3rd Sundays, we will have a nursery care provider available in the Crossroads to offer “supported childcare” for young ones.

July Events

July 6, Supported Childcare 9:30-11:30 in the Crossroads with Najma. This service allows parents of children ages 0-5 to socialize and engage in the service, but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well.

NEW! July 10 (Thursday) 5:30-7:30, Family Picnic at Garner Park Upper Shelter Come join us for an all-ages, intergenerational, family-style picnic in the park! Join members of our Youth Faith Formation Team (YFF) at Garner Park Upper Shelter on Thursday, July 10, 5:30-7:30 pm. Bring a sack dinner for your family and join others for conversation, playtime, and an icy treat. Yard games welcome!

July 13, Kids in the Kitchen with Sara and Marcia ”Kids in the Kitchen” is our yearly summer enrichment program. During worship, children ages 6 and older (ages 5 and younger must be accompanied by a caregiver) will be invited to hear a nature-themed story and make a snack to serve after worship.

July 20, Supported Childcare 9:30-11:30 in the Crossroads with Najma.

July 27, Kids in the Kitchen with Kate and another adult, TBD!

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Youth Service Trip

June 15-21 to Kansas City

Pastor Kate, three adult chaperones (Rob, Kristen, Dan) and one “camp cook” (Gavin) accompanied 13 youth from ORUCC on a week long service and learning trip to Kansas City, MO. We learned about many different justice issues and how they come together to impact the community, such as the history of redlining in Kansas City, worker justice, food systems, and more.

The youth served at meaningful work sites (such as rolling 1200 burritos that they then served for dinner to neighbors experiencing homelessness) and grew in faith and fellowship.

We are so grateful for the support of the ORUCC community who helps make this trip possible for our youth!

Intergenerational Pen-Pals Project

Parents Together Support Group: Summer Edition Online

The “Parents Together” peer-led support group will be offered in an online/zoom format this summer. Stay tuned for a date TBD! In-person monthly gatherings will resume in September.

June 8: Bee Hotel Project

We started the summer by making “bee hotels” to encourage pollination in the Veggie Village and church grounds. During spring cleanup, the children helped to trim last year’s milkweed stalks. We used the stalks for this project by chopping them into smaller pieces and stacking them in recycled plastic plant pots. Keep an eye out for our hotels and the garden mosaic tiles the children made earlier in June around ORUCC.

Home Prayer for the Week:

Try a “listening car ride.” a 1-3 minute car ride is more than enough for the first ride. Gradually increase the time of silence and listening.

Before leaving, gather your family together and explain in a quiet voice, “This is a Listening Car Ride.” That means we are going to listen to hear if God has anything to say to us in the silence of our car ride. We won’t talk to anyone in the car – unless there is an emergency – from the time I say ‘Amen’ until we get to our destination and I say ‘Amen’ again. We might not hear anything, and that is okay. God, we thank you for this quiet car ride. Help us to listen closely to you while we are in the car. Amen.”
When you arrive at your destination, or whenever your child is ready to end the silent session, say, “God, thank you for allowing us the opportunity to listen to your voice. Amen.”

-From Faithful Families, Creating Sacred Moments at Home by Traci Smith