January 25 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 21, 2026

ORUCC Children and Youth 

Sunday, January 25, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday.

Music Connections will not meet this week. See you back again on February 1. Children are invited to stay in worship to support TRUFunction.

Our Youth Lock-In Event this Friday has a new end-time: 6:30-10:30 p.m. Please see below!

Please read on below for more detailed information about this Sunday and other upcoming opportunities.

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Nursery Care 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.

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

Children in PreK-5th Grade will meet in the Ruby Bridges Room. This week, the children will hear the story, “Jubilee,” which focuses on text from Leviticus 25. Following the story, the children will be invited to explore the story deeper through a game, coloring, art, and sand play. Josie G. and Jadyn G. will lead the children in the experience.

This week, Middle School & High School will combine and 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. Gretchen F. and Al. B. will guide the group in this discussion.

Youth Lock-In “Lite”

January 23, 6:30-10:30 p.m.

In response to some feedback, and in light of the cold weather, we are changing the end time of our event to 10:30 p.m. We will plan to hold the event even if MMSD cancels school on Friday. Please use your best judgement if for any reason you feel unsafe traveling out in the cold!

This is a joint event with our friends at Madison Mennonite Church for youth from both of our congregations! Youth in 7th grade – high school are eligible to join in the fun. There will be games, food and time just to hang out, have fun and get to know one another. Please indicate your interest with this form.

At ORUCC, We Are Committed to Justice

Driven by a desire from some of our youth to do something in response to the violence being perpetrated by ICE in Minneapolis, we encourged members of our congregation to create origami cranes and hearts. Many pieces included prayers and words of hope and encouragement for recipients to discover. These origami hearts and cranes will be sent to Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis, where a violent ICE raid took place this month, as a show of our support and solidarity with their community. This school has ties to our congregation, where ORUCC member Sara Hagen’s brother-in-law serves as the principal. We want to send our hopes for peace and justice while we show the community at Roosevelt High that they are not alone!

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

  • January 23, “Lock-In Lite” 6:30pm-10:30 p.m.: Youth Event at ORUCC with Madison Mennonite Church! Sign up here
  • February 1, All Church Chili Cook-Off after worship

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.

In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, try this song as your prayer practice around the dinner table or at bedtime. (Sing to the tune of Michael, Row Your Boat Ashore)

Once there was a man named King, Alleluia;

They called him Martin Luther King, Alleluia

King was wise and he was good, Alleluia

He believed in brotherhood, Alleluia

He had a dream for you and me, Alleluia

He knew that all must be free Alleluia

The freedom road is weary and long Alleluia

But Martin sang a freedom song, Alleluia

We must keep the dream alive, Alleluia

Freedom’s song can never die, Alleluia

Once there was a man named King Alleluia

They called him Martin Luther King, Alleluia

-Original Author Unknown

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

January 18 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 14, 2026

ORUCC Children and Youth 

Sunday, January 18, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday.

Music Connections will meet during worship. we are in need of a Safe Sanctuary Volunteer. Can you help?

Please read on below for more detailed information about this Sunday and other upcoming opportunities, including a new project:

Solidarity Peace Cranes for Minneapolis.

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Nursery Care 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.

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

Children in PreK-5th Grade will meet in the Ruby Bridges Room for music led by Julie. Following the music, the children will hear the story, “Jubilee,” which focuses on text from Leviticus 25. Following the story, the children will be invited to explore the story deeper through a game, coloring, art, and sand play. 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 revisit the text from  Joshua 24, Judges 2, 4-8 (“Judges”), ask questions, journal, draw, and reflect. Kristin M. and Barbara S. 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 week, youth will begin to work on our Solidarity Peace Cranes for Minneapolis (see below) as they are guided by Brian L. and Gretchen F.

Solidarity Peace Cranes for Minneapolis Project

Some of our youth expressed a desire to do something in response to the violence being perpetrated by ICE in Minneapolis. Together, we will create an origami peace project to show our support and solidarity.

This Sunday, children, youth and others in the congregation will be invited to write prayers and words of hope and encouragement on origami paper and fold these intentions of peace into paper cranes and hearts.

These strings of hearts and cranes will be sent to Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis, where a violent ICE raid took place last week, as a show of our solidarity with their community. This school has ties to our congregation, where ORUCC member Sara Hagen’s brother-in-law serves as the principal. We want to send our hopes for peace and justice while we show the community at Roosevelt High that they are not alone!

Photo by Yuu Khoang on Unsplash

Music Opportunities This Week

Music Connections, our music and arts program for children, will meet this Sunday during the 10:00 worship hour, following Children’s Time. Children are welcome to begin worship with their families in the sanctuary until they are invited to join Julie M. for this program downstairs. We are still in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer for this week. Can you help?

TRU Function, our youth band led by Rob Martens and Megan Piper, will practice for February’s worship performance from 10:00-noon. TF “Lite” plays in worship on 1/25, and this smaller group will be practicing together outside of Sunday mornings.

Youth Lock-In “Lite”

January 23, 6:30-Midnight

We are planning a joint event with our friends at Madison Mennonite Church for youth from both of our congregations! Youth in 7th grade – high school are eligible to join in the fun. There will be games, food, a movie, and time just to hang out, have fun and get to know one another. Please indicate your interest with this form. See Pastor Kate for more information.

Epiphany All-Ages Faith Formation, Sunday, January 6

25 children and adults gathered in Friendship Hall on Sunday, January 6 to reflect on the story of the Magi’s arrival in Bethlehem to meet the Christ child. Small groups considered:



  • The Magi and Herod reacted differently to the news of the new Messiah-King. What feelings do they share? What feelings are different?
  • The Magi noticed something in nature (the star) that led them to Jesus. What beautiful or amazing parts of nature make you think of God?

We encourage you to keep these conversations going at home, in the car, and while you are out for walks in nature.

Join us again on Sunday, February 22 for a Lenten All Ages Faith Formation experience.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

  • January 23, “Lock-In Lite” 6:30pm-Midnight: Youth Event at ORUCC with Madison Mennonite Church! Sign up 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.

Many are lonely, who will be neighbor?

Where there is caring, Christ is our light.

Some are neglected, who will be neighbor?

Where there is caring, Christ is our light.

Many are hungry, who will be neighbor?

Where there is sharing, Christ is our light.

Some may be strangers, who will be neighbor?

Where there is welcome, Christ is our friend.

-Now it Is Evening, excerpts. Words by Fred Pratt Green, Music by David Hass. GIA Publishing

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

January 11 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 7, 2026

ORUCC Children and Youth 

Sunday, January 11, 2025

Dear Families,

We hope you are having a good week as you get back into the school schedule groove.

Any early risers are welcome to attend Crafty Sunday at 8:15 am this Sunday in the William Johnson Room.

PreK-12 Faith Formation Programming resumes this Sunday, January 11 during the 9 am hour. Supported Childcare will be available in the Crossroads from 8:30-11:30.

Parents Together will meet this week at 9:00 a.m. in the Romero room.

Music Connections will meet during worship. We are in need of a Safe Sanctuary Volunteer. Can you help?

TRU Function practice also resumes this week at 10:00 a.m.

Please read on below for more detailed information about these events and other upcoming opportunities.

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

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. Avery will be on hand to assist and play with young children.

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 revisit 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 into 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 revisit 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.

Crafty Sunday,

Sunday, January 11, 8:15-9:00

Children and youth of all ages are invited to bring a current craft or start a new project in the William Johnson Room. Parents, if you are seeking a craft space and community, you are welcome to join us. too!



Parents Together Support Group, Rescheduled for 1/11

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.

This group is normally held on the first Sunday of the month, but will meet on the second Sunday in January to allow families to attend Intergenerational Faith Formation together on 1/4.

Youth Lock-In “Lite”

January 23, 6:30-Midnight

We are planning a joint event with our friends at Madison Mennonite Church for youth from both of our congregations! Youth in 7th grade – high school are eligible to join in the fun. There will be games, food, a movie, and time just to hang out, have fun and get to know one another. Please indicate your interest with this form. See Pastor Kate for more information.

Christmas Eve 2025

was a success!



Thank you for all of the hard work that went into creating this beautiful service from TRU Function, our Music Connections kids and their families! It is truly a team effort over many weeks.

We had fun with a pizza party for kids and their families after our dress rehearsal as well. Perhaps a new Christmas Eve-Eve tradition?



Epiphany All-Ages Faith Formation, Sunday, January 6

25 children and adults gathered in Friendship Hall on Sunday, January 6 to reflect on the story of the Magi’s arrival in Bethlehem to meet the Christ child. Small groups considered:



  • The Magi and Herod reacted differently to the news of the new Messiah-King. What feelings do they share? What feelings are different?
  • The Magi noticed something in nature (the star) that led them to Jesus. What beautiful or amazing parts of nature make you think of God?

We encourage you to keep these conversations going at home, in the car, and while you are out for walks in nature.

Join us again on Sunday, February 22 for a Lenten All Ages Faith Formation experience.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

  • January 11, 8:15-9:00 Crafty Sunday
  • January 11, 9:00 Parents Together Support Group
  • January 23, “Lock-In Lite” 6:30pm-Midnight: Youth Event at ORUCC with Madison Mennonite Church! Sign up 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.

I pray that everyone will help anyone who needs it,

and that our world will get better

because of people choosing good over bad

and love over hatred

because God is among us,

God is us,

and God loves us forever.

-Fiona S.

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

January 4 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 31, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth 

Sunday, January 4, 2025

Dear Families,

We hope you had a restorative holiday week with family and friends. Programming resumes this Sunday, January 4, with a special Intergenerational Faith Formation at 9 AM. Join us for an Epiphany Reflection, Creative Star design making, and tasty Star Cookies made by our beloved John Leonard.

Music Connections will resume during worship. TRU Function will NOT meet this week. Nursery Care/Supported Childcare is also off this Sunday.

Children and their caregivers are welcome to enjoy the space in the Crossroads.

A small selection of John Leonard’s delicious Epiphany breads will be shared following worship, as well.

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Family Game Night

Friday January 2, 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.

Parents Together Support Group, Rescheduled for 1/11

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.

This group is normally held on the first Sunday of the month, but will meet on the second Sunday in January to allow families to attend Intergenerational Faith Formation together on 1/4.

Youth Lock-In “Lite”

January 23, 6:30-Midnight

We are planning a joint event with our friends at Madison Mennonite Church for youth from both of our congregations! Youth in 7th grade – high school are eligible to join in the fun. There will be games, food, a movie, and time just to hang out, have fun and get to know one another. Please indicate your interest with this form. See Pastor Kate for more information.

Christmas Eve 2025

was a success!



Thank you for all of the hard work that went into creating this beautiful service from TRU Function, our Music Connections kids and their families! It is truly a team effort over many weeks.

We had fun with a pizza party for kids and their families after our dress rehearsal as well. Perhaps a new Christmas Eve-Eve tradition?



Save the Date: Upcoming Events

  • January 2, Family Game Night 6:00-8:00 p.m.
  • January 4, All ages Intergenerational Epiphany Faith Formation, 9:00 a.m.
  • January 11, 8:15-9:00 Crafty Sunday
  • January 11, 9:00 Parents Together Support Group
  • January 23, “Lock-In Lite” 6:30pm-Midnight: Youth Event at ORUCC with Madison Mennonite Church! RSVP 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.

We put the decorations up to remember a special season.

We take them down and remember this special time.

We put things away gently and look forward to taking them out again next year.

Next year they will be new again.

Next year they will be waiting for us.

Next year they will bring us joy and happiness.

-from Faithful Families for Advent and Christmas, Traci Smith

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

December 28 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 24, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth 

Sunday, December 28, 2025

Dear Families,

Merry Christmas Eve!

A Hearty “Thank You” to those who will participate in our worship service tonight, and a Warm Hug and “Hello” to those who will keep us in their hearts from afar.

Now is the time to rest and recharge. On the Sunday after Christmas, we will not hold 9 AM Faith Formation, Music Connections, or TRU Function practice. Your child is welcome to attend the 10 am Worship Service and Hymn Sing. Nursery Care/Supported Childcare is also off this Sunday.

Programming resumes next Sunday, January 4, with a special Intergenerational Faith Formation at 9 AM. Join us for an Epiphany Reflection, Creative Star design making, and tasty Star Cookies made by our beloved John Leonard.

A small selection of John Leonard’s delicious Epiphany breads will be shared following worship that day, as well.

-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Youth Lock-In “Lite”

January 23, 6:30-Midnight

We are planning a joint event with our friends at Madison Mennonite Church for youth from both of our congregations! Youth in 7th grade – high school are eligible to join in the fun. There will be games, food, a movie, and time just to hang out, have fun and get to know one another. Please indicate your interest with this form. See Pastor Kate for more information.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

  • December 28, Winter Break: No Children’s Faith Formation, TRU Function Practice or Music Connections
  • January 4, All ages Intergenerational Epiphany Faith Formation, 9:00 a.m.
  • January 11, 8:15-9:00 Crafty Sunday
  • January 23, “Lock-In Lite” 6:30pm-Midnight: Youth Event at ORUCC with Madison Mennonite Church! RSVP 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.

The message of Christmas is for every day.

The message of Christmas is for every person.

God loves every person, every day.

This is the good news to remember, always.

-from Faithful Families for Advent and Christmas, by Traci Smith

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

December 21 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 17, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth 

Sunday, December 21, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing your family back at ORUCC this week. This coming Sunday is the fourth week of Advent – Love. There are many great ways to be involved at ORUCC this week!

Christmas Eve music rehearsal continues this Sunday, 10 am-11 am, downstairs in the Bonhoeffer Room. TRU Function will practice from 10:00-noon.

Be sure to save time to visit the Fair Trade Sale happening in Friendship Hall this Sunday. Wonderful causes and organizations to support for all of your last-minute holiday shopping needs.

Please see below for information about Christmas Eve service preparations, including a fun pizza party for all participants after our rehearsal on the 23rd.



-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Supported Childcare in the Crossroads with Jade 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. (Nursery Care is not offered this week).

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

Children in PreK-5th Grade will gather in the Ruby Bridges Room at 9 am for Music with Julie. We’ll begin by singing, “Mary Had a Baby” in preparation for our Christmas Eve service. Following the music, the children will explore the Advent stories of the Prophets, Mary and Joseph, the Shepherds, and the Magi. Exploration stations will include writing Christmas cards to church elders, creating ornaments, sand play, and puzzles. 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 Advent story of Mary and Elizabeth. The youth will also have the opportunity to journal and create an ornament. Kellie M. and Barbara S. 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. and Rayelle B. this week.

Music Opportunities

Music Connections/Christmas Eve Rehearsal: 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. Devin C. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

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

Christmas Eve Service and Practice Details

(Plus a Pizza Party)!

Our beloved Children & Youth-led Christmas Eve service will be at 3:00 p.m. on December 24th. For those participating, please note the following:

  • December 23: Christmas Eve Dress Rehearsal, 5:30-6:30 pm

Festive Attire Encouraged! All are welcome for a pizza party in Friendship Hall following the rehearsal. Please see details and RSVP for pizza here.

  • December 24: Christmas Eve Final Run Through, 2:00 pm

TRU Function will practice one hour before the rest of the Music Connections practice:

December 23 at 4:30 p.m., and December 24th at 1:00 p.m.

Save the Date: Upcoming Events

  • December 24: Christmas Eve Service, 3:00 pm
  • December 28, Winter Break: No Children’s Faith Formation or Music Connections
  • January 4, All ages Intergenerational Epiphany Faith Formation, 9:00
  • January 23, “Lock-In Light” 6:00pm-Midnight: Youth Event at ORUCC with Madison Mennonite Church and First UMC! More info coming soon about this joint fellowship opportunity.

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.

Lo, how a Rose e’er blooming from tender stem has sprung!

Of Jesse’s lineage coming as saints of old have sung.

It came upon a floweret bright, amid the cold of winter,

when half spent was the night.

Isaiah had foretold it, the Rose I have in mind,

With Mary we behold it, the Virgin Mother kind.

To show God’s love aright, she bore to us a child,

when half spent was the night.

-lyrics, “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming”

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

December 14 Children and Youth Faith Formation

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 10, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth 

Sunday, December 14, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing your family back at ORUCC this week. This coming Sunday is the third week of Advent – Joy. There are many great ways to be involved at ORUCC this week!

If you signed up to purchase a gift for a child in need for our Gift Tree, please return your wrapped, labeled gift this Sunday.

Crafty Sunday returns this Sunday in the Johnson Room at 8:15 am. Children of all ages are invited to bring a current craft or start a new project. Parents, if you are seeking a craft space, you are welcome to join us. too!

Christmas Eve music rehearsal continues this Sunday, 10 am-11am, downstairs in the Bonhoeffer Room.

Finally, prepare your bellies for our annual Cookie Sale to support the Summer Service Trip.

Please read below for details about this, and other upcoming events.



-Pastor Kate & Julie M.

Sunday Morning Faith Formation Classes

Nursery Care 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-8th Grade) 9:00-9:50 AM:

Children in PreK-8th Grade will gather in the Ruby Bridges Room at 9 am for Music with Julie. We’ll begin by singing, “Mary Had a Baby” in preparation for our Christmas Eve service. Following the music, the children will explore the advent stories of the Prophets, Mary and Joseph, and the Shepherds. Exploration stations will include writing Christmas cards to church elders, ornament creation, sand play, and puzzles. We’ll close in prayer. Josie G. and Jadyn G., and Hal E. will lead the children in the experience.

Teen Text (High School) will not meet this Sunday. Instead, teens are invited to help set-up the Cookie Sale during the 9 am Faith Formation hour. Youth, please sign up here for a task!

Music Opportunities

Music Connections/Christmas Eve Rehearsal:  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. Devin C. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

TRU Function: will continue their preparations for the Christmas Eve service at with practice from 10:00-Noon on Sunday. TF youth who are also involved in the Service Trip are expected to participate in the Cookie sale set-up before practice and/or clean-up after practice.

Youth Service Trip Fundraiser Cookie Sale Info

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

  • 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.
  • December 28, Winter Break: No Children’s Faith Formation or Music Connections
  • January 4, All ages Intergenerational Epiphany Faith Formation, 9:00
  • January 23, “Lock-In Light” 6:00pm-Midnight: Youth Event at ORUCC with Madison Mennonite Church and First UMC! More info coming soon about this joint fellowship opportunity.

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.

God of Joy,

Thank you for loving us.

Thank you for the ways joy fills our world

during this season.

Help us to spread that joy to those around us, even when it’s hard.

Amen.

-from “Advent at the Kids Table”

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

ORUCC – An Advent Note from the Leadership Team

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 2, 2025

 

Dear Fellow Congregants, 

 

 Welcome to our Advent season for 2025.We appreciate your understanding for us as we had to cancel last Sunday’s morning worship. We made that decision because of the road conditions for parishioners who don’t live near, and for the challenge of clearing our parking lot and sidewalks to make them safe for everyone before service.

 

I hope you take a moment to view Pastor Kate’s video on YouTube as an alternative way to celebrate the first week of Advent; the link is available here: https://bit.ly/ORUCCAdvent1

 

 Two other things for your special attention this week: 

 

1. We are approaching the last stages of our 2026 Stewardship Campaign. So far, we have 130 individuals or families pledging $458,682 for next year’s budget of $570,000. If you have not yet turned in your pledge for next year, please mail it in, or drop it by church, or put it in the offering basket next Sunday. We appreciate your help because it helps us figure out what we can do next year! Most of the money goes to the salaries and benefits of our staff and to the maintenance of our property. Your support is essential! 

 

2. Our Giving Tree for local families is in need of volunteers who will buy gifts for a child whose families can’t afford to buy gifts. You can evoke the spirit of the Magi who brought gifts to the infant Jesus by viewing our online Holiday Gift Tree and selecting one (or more) children. 

 

Gift Tree link:  https://bit.ly/ORUCC-Gift-Tree

 

You will buy gifts for your selected children, wrap them, and bring them to church by Sunday, December 14th. This gives our partner agencies time to distribute gifts to families before Christmas. I hope you will be a part of this community ministry.  

 

There are many more joys to celebrate this Advent, and I hope to see you in Church or online for each of the rest of the Sundays in December. Thanks in advance for all you give and do for our community and in support of our ministries.  

 

Advent Blessings to you, 

ORUCC Leadership Team



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

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

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 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: 

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.

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.

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!

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. 

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

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: 

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.

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. 

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 Brian L. and Gretchen F. this week.

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: 

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.

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. 

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. and Rayelle B. this week.

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.

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!

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: 

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.

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 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.

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, 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.

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!

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: 

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.

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.

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 Brian L. and Al. B. this week.

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.

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 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

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.

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.

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.

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 Pastor Kate and Brian L. this week.

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: 

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.

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 5th 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.

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., Brian L., and Gretchen F. this Sunday.

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 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.

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: 

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.

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!

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 5th 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 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.

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 6-9 (“Flood”), 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 and Rayelle this week.

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 mixed instrument play and soundcape creation. 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.

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 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.

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: 

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.

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 5th 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 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.

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 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.

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., Brian L., Rayelle B., and Gretchen F. throughout the year.

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.

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.

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.

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 5th 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 2nd grade-6th grade will begin on September 7th, and our youth band, TRU Function, will begin practicing September 14th.

Welcome Back Sunday, September 7th, 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 7th.

 

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.

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 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 (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., Brian L., Rayelle B., and Gretchen F. throughout the year.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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 5th grade), Echo the Story (6th-7th grade), and Teen Text (8th-12th grade). Nursery care will be available for younger children.

 

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

Welcome Back Sunday, September 7th, 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 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 7th.

 

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 (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:

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.

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 (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

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. 

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!

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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).

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.

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

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: 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:

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.

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.

  1. 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.”
  2. 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

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

ORUCC June Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on June 4, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

June 2025

Dear Families,

Thank you for worshiping us with us on Sunday, June 1, in celebration of the close of the 2024-25 programming year. Joining together to recognize the highlights of our time together, the rich intergenerational experiences, and the many volunteers who made this year possible was powerful and heartwarming.

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 to be kept in the know of events and for a home prayer.

We pray for a joyful, peaceful end to the school year as you embark on your summer adventures.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Family Game Night

June 6, 6:00-8:00 p.m.

This month for Game Night we will be having sandwiches for dinner, using the unopened bread and meat saved from Work & Worship Sunday. Some families are bringing waffle irons or panini presses to allow us to have hot sandwiches! Please bring something to share for the potluck portion–either a favorite sandwich topping or a side that can go with sandwiches. Cake for Devin’s and Sage’s birthdays will also be provided. Bring games and some food to share so that we can have great conversation and fellowship.

(FYI: Game night will take a hiatus in July and August and resume in September.)

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.

June Events

June 8, “Bee Hotel” Project: During worship at 10:00 a.m., children ages 5+ are invited to join Julie and Rachael to make “Bee Hotels” that will be placed around the ORUCC property. Children should gather in worship with their caregivers and will be dismissed to participate in the project.

June 15, Supported Childcare 9:30-11:30 in the Crossroads with Abby. 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. 

June 22, 10:00 a.m. Outdoor Worship at ORUCC:

An engaging opportunity for all ages to enjoy the beauty of Creation in worship on the lawn.

June 29, No special Children’s 10:00 a.m. programming. Children are encouraged to attend worship with their caregivers. Many families may be heading up to Moon Beach Family Camp this day (June 29-July 6).

Youth Service Trip

June 15-21 to Kansas City

Pastor Kate, three adult chaperones (Rob, Kristen, Dan), one “camp cook” (Gavin) and one gear van driver (Kellie) will accompany 14 youth from ORUCC on a service and learning trip with Be The Neighbor, a UCC/DoC progressive Christians service organization. This year’s theme is “Let Love be Louder.” We are looking forward to learning about “Justice 101” as we serve in Kansas City, in addition to fellowship and fun!

Intergenerational Pen-Pals Project

If you signed up for our pen pals project this summer, be on the lookout for an email next week with more details and your pen pal match! Please plan on writing or drawing a letter/card at least 3 times during June 15-September 15.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Faith Formation Celebration June 1:

Garden Mosaics for ORUCC gardens

In celebration of our final Sunday for the ’24-’25 programming year, the children had an opportunity to create garden mosaic pavers that will be placed near the ORUCC veggie village. Joyce Pohl and Susan Dovell assisted us with the project.

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.

We can have peace every time we take a break.

We breathe in deep.

We can have peace everytime we slow down.

We notice the world around us.

We can have peace every time we are quiet before God.

Thank you, God, for peace.

-From Faithful Families for Advent and Christmas, Traci Smith

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

ORUCC June 1 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 28, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

June 1, 2025

Dear Families,

This Sunday, June 1, is the close of the 2024-25 programming year! We have some special opportunities this coming Sunday in celebration:

PreK-6th Grade: At 9 am, all attending children are invited to the Bridges Room to create a Garden Mosaic Stepping Stone that will be placed in the ORUCC gardens.

Older youth (7th-H.S.): TRU Function will practice at 8:30 a.m. in preparation for worship.

Youth not in TRU Function will meet with Pastor Kate and Al for Breakfast Club to help set up for Worship and Sundae Sunday celebrations. Older youth may also participate in making a stepping stone if desired.

Then, at 10 am Worship, we will have a special recognition of our graduating Seniors and celebrate our children and youth ministry year. TRU Function will lead us in music. Be sure to stay for sundaes after worship!

Abby will be available in the Crossroads for Supported Childcare from 8:30-11:30. 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. 

For the rest of the summer, we’ll be coming to your inbox once a month with updates. Be sure to scroll down to be kept in the know of events and for a home prayer.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Upcoming Events

  • June 1, 9:00 a.m. “Parents Together” Peer Support: Join other parents at ORUCC for a time to share in the joys and challenges of parenting while your kids are in Faith Formation. Led by Joanna and Claire, this peer support group is open to all parents of kids’ at any age or stage.
  • June 1, 10:00 a.m. Worship & “Sundae Sunday” Celebration: We will recognize our graduating Seniors, honor our children and youth ministry volunteers, and celebrate the end of the programming year with Ice Cream sundaes after worship!
  • June 6, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Family Game Night: Come for the final game night before a break for the summer. Join this casual time of fellowship with a potluck dinner and board games galore!
  • June 8, during worship: Children ages 6+ are invited to join Julie and Rachael to make Bee Boxes that will be hung around the ORUCC property.
  • June 15, Supported Childcare 9:30-11:30 in the Crossroads with Abby
  • June 15-21, Youth Service Trip to Kansas City, MO

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!
pencil.jpg

Summer Intergenerational Pen Pals

The summer pen pals initiative presents a wonderful opportunity for our congregation to connect across generations. Older and younger pen pals will be paired up to share in a fun and meaningful exchange of experiences, stories, and encouragement. Participants will commit to sending three heartfelt snail-mail letters throughout the summer.

At this time, we are gathering interest in the program. Please fill out THIS form or contact Julie or Kate if you would like to be considered for our Pen Pal program. The deadline to express interest is May 30.

God the Creator Still at Work:

Faith Formation 5/18

Our 9 AM Faith Formation hour for PreK-6th grade began indoors with a time to reflect on the words of Psalm 104. The children later traveled outside to draw chalk images from the Psalm and continue to make observations about the world around them. Our time ended with an opportunity to share what they are grateful for in creation. See prayer below for instructions on how to recreate this experience at home.

“According to the psalmist, creation did not end in Genesis; it continues even today.

We see God watering the earth, causing grass and plants to grow to feed the animals and people, providing places for shelter, and marking the seasons. It is this important idea that the psalmist wants to communicate—creation continues, and God the Creator is still at work lovingly tending the earth and its creatures, both great and small,”

-From Path to Peace with Creation.

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.

A Prayer for the end of the school year:

On this day, God, I shine, shine, shine!

I feel proud and so happy-

I did it!

When I do great things, help me to remember this:

You love me when I do great things, and you love me when I don’t.

Your love is always there for me.

I don’t have to earn it.

-From Prayers for Faithful Families, Traci Smith

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

ORUCC May 25 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 21, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, May 25, 2025

Dear Families,

Due to the Memorial Day Holiday Weekend, we will not hold 9 AM Faith Formation this Sunday. Your child is welcome to attend the 10 am Worship Service. Najma and Jade will be available in the Nursery to care for children ages 0-5, 9:30-11:30. Scroll to the end of this email for a special prayer practice your family can engage in together. 

Music Opportunities this week: There will be no 10:00 a.m. Music Connections (2nd-6th grade). Children are encouraged to remain in worship with their families. TRU Function (youth band) will have their practice as normal from 10:00-noon.



At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and photos of recent events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Upcoming Events

  • May 23-25 Brat Fest Fundraiser for Youth Service Trip: All youth attending the Service Trip are expected to sign up to participate in the Brat Fest fundraiser. Anyone else from the congregation who would like to volunteer under our group’s name (Orchard Ridge UCC) will also have their hours counted toward our fundraiser! Please sign up here if you would like to participate.
  • May 26, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Mandatory Service Trip Meeting: for any youth and chaperones attending this year’s service trip. We will go over important information as we share fellowship together.
  • June 1, Sundae Sunday: Final day of Faith Formation for children and Youth for the programming year. During worship we will have a special recognition of our graduating Seniors and celebrate our children and youth ministry year. Stay for sundaes after worship!
  • June 1, 9:00 a.m. “Parents Together” Peer Support: Join other parents at ORUCC for a time to share in the joys and challenges of parenting while your kids are in Faith Formation. Led by Joanna and Claire, this peer support group is open to all parents of kids’ at any age or stage.
  • June 6, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Family Game Night: Come for the final game night before a break for the summer. Join this casual time of fellowship with a potluck dinner and board games galore!

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!
pencil.jpg

Summer Intergenerational Pen Pals

The summer pen pals initiative presents a wonderful opportunity for our congregation to connect across generations. Older and younger pen pals will be paired up to share in a fun and meaningful exchange of experiences, stories, and encouragement. Participants will commit to sending three heartfelt snail-mail letters throughout the summer.

At this time, we are gathering interest in the program. Please fill out THIS form or contact Julie or Kate if you would like to be considered for our Pen Pal program. The deadline to express interest is May 30.

God the Creator Still at Work:

Faith Formation 5/18

Our 9 AM Faith Formation hour for PreK-6th grade began indoors with a time to reflect on the words of Psalm 104. The children later traveled outside to draw chalk images from the Psalm and continue to make observations about the world around them. Our time ended with an opportunity to share what they are grateful for in creation. See prayer below for instructions on how to recreate this experience at home.

“According to the psalmist, creation did not end in Genesis; it continues even today.

We see God watering the earth, causing grass and plants to grow to feed the animals and people, providing places for shelter, and marking the seasons. It is this important idea that the psalmist wants to communicate—creation continues, and God the Creator is still at work lovingly tending the earth and its creatures, both great and small,”

-From Path to Peace with Creation.

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.

Create a “spring” of water as you express gratitude to God for the beauty of creation. Set a small bowl inside a large bowl or basin. Fill the small bowl half full of water. Give your family members several stones or marbles. As family members name something they are grateful for in creation, they can place a stone in the small bowl. Continue placing stones in the small bowl until the water overflows into the larger bowl or basin.

-From Path to Peace with Creation

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

ORUCC May 18 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 14, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, May 18, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this week. Read on below for details about this opportunity and other things happening this Sunday. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and photos of recent events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Supported Childcare Najma will be available in the Crossroads 8:30-11:30. This service allows parents to socialize and engage in the service, but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well. 

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

PreK-6th Grade (Ruby Bridges Room): This week, the children will gather together to reflect upon the words of Psalm 104. Following the discussion, the children will be invited to explore multi-sensory stations to deepen their understanding of the text. Weather permitting, we’ll travel outdoors to draw and make observations of our natural surroundings. Megan, Barbara, and Marcia will guide the children through the experience.

7th-HS (Dorothy Day Room): Youth will join Kristin and Susan for the final session of “Tell Me About the Bible: Extraordinary Leaders”. This interactive series focuses on some lesser-known characters from the Bible who have something important to teach us about leadership. This week youth will learn about the story of Priscilla.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for our final Music Connections of the 2024-25 programming year. This week, we’ll freely explore many the many instruments in our collection – African Drums, xylophones, and ukuleles. We are in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer. Can you help? Email Julie if you, or your teen, can. 

TRU Function: Practice from 10-noon in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

  • May 23-25 Brat Fest Fundraiser for Youth Service Trip: All youth attending the Service Trip are expected to sign up to participate in the Brat Fest fundraiser. Anyone else from the congregation who would like to volunteer under our group’s name (Orchard Ridge UCC) will also have their hours counted toward our fundraiser! Please sign up here if you would like to participate.
  • May 25 No 9 AM Faith Formation or 10 AM Music Connections
  • May 26, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Mandatory Service Trip Meeting: for any youth and chaperones attending this year’s service trip. We will go over important information as we share fellowship together.
  • June 1, Sundae Sunday: Final day of Faith Formation for children and Youth for the programming year. During worship we will have a special recognition of our graduating Seniors and celebrate our children and youth ministry year. Stay for sundaes after worship!
  • June 6, 6:00-8:00 Family Game Night: Come for the final game night before a break for the summer. Join this casual time of fellowship with a potluck dinner and board games galore!

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

May 10 – Celebrating Pat Hale’s 100th Birthday

On Sunday, our children helped to brighten Pat Hale’s birthday celebration with handmade tissue paper flowers and a poster.

Creation Care Sunday!

On Sunday, May 4, we had a special Creation Care celebration. During the 9 am Faith Formation hour, members of our Care of Creation team led the children and youth in an outdoor nature scavenger hunt. In mixed-age teams, everyone had the opportunity to discover the variety of plants surrounding the church. The children also gathered natural materials that will be used later this summer in a hands-on project to create bee homes for our gardens.

During worship. The children of Music Connections (accompanied by several of their parents) shared an engaging reflection on the Creation narrative with words, music, movement, and art in lieu of a traditional sermon. The Earth Quilt that the children had worked on this spring also made its debut! It was a lovely morning celebrating the beauty of God’s creation in this springtime season. 

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.

Praying in Color: A hands on home prayer exercise. From https://prayingincolor.com/praying-in-color

What you’ll need:

  1. Paper
  2. Pen
  3. Colored markers or colored pencils or colored gel pens
  4. A table or clipboard or book to put your paper on.

1) Write your name for God on a piece of paper. Draw a shape around it or just start to doodle. Let your pen take you for a walk. The drawing becomes a prayer space, a small prayer closet.

2) Add marks and shapes. Focus on the name you chose. Ask God to be part of your prayer time. If words come to you, pray them; if not, rest in the silence. Think of each stroke as a nonverbal prayer.

3) To pray for a person, write their name somewhere else on the page. Draw around the name. Add color. Keep drawing as you release the person into God’s care.

4) Add other people to your drawing. Think of each stroke of your pen as a prayer for them. Take a breath or say “Amen” between each person.

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

ORUCC May 11 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 7, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, May 11, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this week. Read on below for details about this opportunity and other things happening this Sunday. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and photos of recent events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Supported Childcare Najma will be available in the Crossroads 8:30-11:30. This service allows parents to socialize and engage in the service, but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well. 

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

PreK-6th Grade (Ruby Bridges Room): This week, the children will gather together for a special Mother’s Day lesson. We’ll reflect on the words of Ephesians 6:1-3, play a “Matriarchs of the Bible” Memory Game, and create something for the mothers in our lives. Josie and Julie M. will guide the children in this experience.

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am. 

7th-HS (Dorothy Day Room): Youth will join Kristin and Susan to resume the third of four sessions on “Tell Me About the Bible: Extraordinary Leaders”. This interactive series focuses on some lesser-known characters from the Bible who have something important to teach us about leadership. This week youth will learn about the story of Phoebe.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for creative movement and a drum circle. We are in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer. Can you help? Email Julie if you, or your teen, can. 

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or 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: Practice from 10-noon in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

  • May 23-25 Brat Fest Fundraiser for Youth Service Trip: All youth attending the Service Trip are expected to sign up to participate in the Brat Fest fundraiser. Anyone else from the congregation who would like to volunteer under our group’s name (Orchard Ridge UCC) will also have their hours counted toward our fundraiser! Please sign up here if you would like to participate.
  • May 26, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Mandatory Service Trip Meeting: for any youth and chaperones attending this year’s service trip. We will go over important information as we share fellowship together.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Creation Care Sunday!

On Sunday, May 4, we had a special Creation Care celebration. During the 9 am Faith Formation hour, members of our Care of Creation team led the children and youth in an outdoor nature scavenger hunt. In mixed-age teams, everyone had the opportunity to discover the variety of plants surrounding the church. The children also gathered natural materials that will be used later this summer in a hands-on project to create bee homes for our gardens.

During worship. The children of Music Connections (accompanied by several of their parents) shared an engaging reflection on the Creation narrative with words, music, movement, and art in lieu of a traditional sermon. The Earth Quilt that the children had worked on this spring also made its debut! It was a lovely morning celebrating the beauty of God’s creation in this springtime season.

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.

Mother’s Day

God, you love our mom every day.

There is nothing she needs to do or be to have your love.

She is loved by her family too.

On Mother’s Day we say, “Thank you, God, for our mom.”

May our mom know in her heart how much we love her

and how much you love her too.

-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

ORUCC May 4 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 30, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, May 4, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this week. Of special note, this Sunday we will have a new peer-led group experience, “Parents Together” at 9:00 a.m. Read on below for details about this opportunity and other things happening this Sunday. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and photos of recent events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Supported Childcare Abby will be available in the Crossroads 8:30-11:30. This service allows parents to socialize and engage in the service, but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well. 

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

ALL PreK-High School Children and Youth (Ruby Bridges Room): This week, children and youth of all ages will gather for an outdoor nature scavenger hunt led by Rachael, Alice and Jill who are members of our Care of Creation Team. In mixed-age teams, everyone will have an opportunity to discover the variety of plants surrounding the church. The children will also participate in a hands-on project creating bee homes for our gardens.

After the scavenger hunt, Music Connections children will rehearse music to share in service in the Anne Frank Room. Once our rehearsal is complete, we’ll arrive at the service together.

All children will stay in worship this week as we continue a celebration of God’s creation with the whole congregation!

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections will not meet this week. Instead, the children will share their music during worship.

TRU Function: Practice from 10-noon in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

  • May 2, 6:00-8:00 p.m.Family Game Night: Join with other families from ORUCC for this informal monthly gathering of merriment and fun! Bring a dish to pass and a game to share.
  • May 4, 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. This will be the soft-launch of a group that will likely meet regularly in the fall.
  • May 23-25 Brat Fest Fundraiser for Youth Service Trip: All youth attending the Service Trip are expected to sign up to participate in the Brat Fest fundraiser. Anyone else from the congregation who would like to volunteer under our group’s name (Orchard Ridge UCC) will also have their hours counted toward our fundraiser! Please sign up here if you would like to participate.
  • May 26, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Mandatory Service Trip Meeting: for any youth and chaperones attending this year’s service trip. We will go over important information as we share fellowship together.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Immigration Justice Sunday, April 27

Last week, along with churches all over the state of Wisconsin, our congregation had a special service focused on Immigration Justice. Music was led by TRU Function. Ruthanne, who led the ORUCC group trip to the border in January, gave a special Children’s Message focused on “Welcome”. She included images from the “Welcome Quilt” that the children helped to created in Faith Formation a few weeks before. Ruthanne also taught the children how to say “Hello!” in the different languages of people who utilized the Welcome Center in Arizona that our ORUCC group visited this winter.

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.

Prayer for the Earth:

We live by the sun

We feel by the moon

We move by the stars

We live in all things

All things live in us

We eat from the earth

We drink from the rain

We breathe of the air

We live in all things

All things live in us

We call to each other

We listen to each other

Our hearts deepen with love and compassion

We live in all things

All things live in us

-Unknown, from the book “Earth Prayers”

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

ORUCC April 27 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 23, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, April 27, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and photos of recent events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

PreK-6 grade (Ruby Bridges Room): This week, all children will gather together to explore the Easter story, “Jesus is Light.” Through conversation, reflection, and multi-sensory stations, the children will discover how Jesus’ light continues to shine in each of us after his resurrection. We’ll close in a quiet meditation. Joanna and Gretchen will guide the children through the experience. 

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am. 

Youth (7th-High School) will meet at 9:00 a.m. in the Dorothy Day room for “Breakfast Club” with Pastor Kate and Kristin Muckian.



Youth attending service trip: Look for another email TOMORROW 4/24 with some additional information and action items!

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment, children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Bonhoeffer room. This week, we’ll further develop the Creation story with the help of some of our caregivers. Save the date: On May 4, the children and caregivers will share this music during worship.

TRU Function: TRU Function leads worship this Sunday! Gather at 8:30 a.m. for practice in the sanctuary.

Upcoming Events

  • May 4, 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. This will be the soft-launch of a group that will likely meet regularly in the fall.
  • May 23-25 Brat Fest Fundraiser for Youth Service Trip: All youth attending the Service Trip are expected to sign up to participate in the Brat Fest fundraiser. Anyone else from the congregation who would like to volunteer under our group’s name (Orchard Ridge UCC) will also have their hours counted toward our fundraiser! Please sign up here if you would like to participate.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Palm Sunday, Holy Week and Easter at ORUCC

On Palm Sunday, April 13, over 50 children and adults gathered in Friendship Hall to journey through Holy Week together. Through words and tangram shape-making, we heard and experienced the stories of Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Easter Sunday. At times challenging, at times easy, new and old friends of all ages experienced Holy Week in a new way.

Children and youth participated in the week’s activities including Maundy Thursday home meals, Good Friday Tenebrae service, Easter Sunday sunrise service and 10:00 worship, followed by an Easter egg hunt! It was a beautiful week as we lived out rhythms of faith and the stories we learned together in the tangram shape-making.

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.

Did you know that Easter is not just one day, but a whole season? The joy we began to celebrate on Easter Sunday continues for the next 50 days.

Easter is a time of new life! The growing flowers of spring remind us that there are new things happening all around us. We can have hope as we look for signs of new life that God provides. Try this breath prayer together:

Inhale: The old has gone;

Exhale: The new is here.

-Inspired by Every Season Sacred, p. 197

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

ORUCC April 13 – Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 9, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, April 13, 2025

*Palm Sunday*

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. This coming Sunday is Palm Sunday, which begins Holy Week leading up to Easter. There will be a special all-ages faith formation event at 9:00 a.m. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events, photos of recent events, and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Intergenerational Faith Formation 9:00 a.m.: All are welcome to attend an all-ages faith formation event for Palm Sunday. Together, we will travel through Holy Week by story-telling, tangram creation, and a faith reflection led by Julie Mazer. What is a Tangram? A Tangram is a geometric puzzle consisting of a square cut into seven pieces. The pieces can be arranged to make various other shapes. This will be in place of regular children, youth, and adult faith formation for this Sunday.

After worship, middle and high school youth are invited to help stuff Easter eggs for our egg hunt on Easter Sunday! Pizza lunch will be provided.

No Faith Formation on Sunday, April 20 due to Easter Sunday.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections resumes this week. Following the children’s moment, children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Bonhoeffer room. This week, we’ll further develop the Creation story with the help of some of our caregivers. Save the date: On May 4, the children and caregivers will share this music during worship.

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or 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: TRU Function will practice from 10:00-12:00 in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

  • Holy Week Services include Maundy Thursday meals April 17, Good Friday Service April 18 at 7:00 p.m.
  • Easter Sunday April 20: Sunrise service begins at 6:00 a.m. followed by a brunch. 10:00 Worship, followed by an Easter Egg hunt for children and youth.

In the Community

  • “Resilient Families” Conversation, April 13, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Madison Friends Meetinghouse (Quaker) invites the community to participate in monthly conversations about challenges facing families today. April 13 will feature teen voices in a discussion about coping with climate change realities. Free dinner and childcare provided! See this document for more information.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Amazing Grace

Four ORUCC youth brought home the traveling trophy for the second year in a row! Miles were run, puzzles were solved, challenges were accepted, and baby food was consumed. Over the course of two hours, these teens competed alongside 10 teams from 5 other churches. Everyone left the event joyful, tired from laughing and running, and with a little more Bible knowledge. The winning team selects an organization to donate the money from the Prize Pot. Our youth selected Casa Alitas.

Welcome Quilts with Ruthanne

On April 6, the children had the opportunity to view the Welcome Quilts in Friendship Hall and design their own Welcome Quilt square. Ruthanne Landsness led this experience and included a short lesson about welcoming newcomers who do not speak English. Ruthanne was so impressed with the children’s thoughtfulness and creativity.

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.

The next time you are at the grocery store, consider picking up a bag of Jelly Beans and sharing this prayer with your family as you munch:

RED is the robin; we see her in spring. She feeds her babies, sheltered under her wing.

BLACK is the soil where seeds sprout and grow. Look closely and see so much life down below.

GREEN are the leaves on the flowers and trees. They shelter the animals, insects, and bees.

WHITE is the color of the clouds way up high. What interesting shapes do you see in the sky?

PINK, YELLOW, AND ORANGE make a beautiful sunrise. It reminds us of hope. It’s a daily surprise.

All of these colors are the colors of spring. They show us God’s love and the new life God can bring.

From: Faithful Families for Lent, Easter, and Resurrection by Traci Smith

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

ORUCC April 6 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 2, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, April 6, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events, photos of recent events, and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

PreK-6th Grade: Ruthanne Landsness will lead the children’s Faith Formation hour this week. The children will be able to view the quilts in Friendship Hall, draw their own “Welcome” quilt square, and participate in a short Spanish lesson!

Following Faith Formation, the children will head straight to Music Connections. They will not start in the sanctuary this week.

Youth (7th-H.S.) will meet in the Dorothy Day room. This Sunday we are in the second of a four-session study called “Tell Me About the Bible: Extraordinary Leaders”. This interactive series will focus on some lesser-known characters from the Bible who have something important to teach us about leadership. This week we learn about Rahab from the book of Joshua. Susan Watson, Kristin and Al Blanchard will be our guides for this Sunday.

Caregivers: At 9 AM, caregivers are invited to join Pastor Kate and Julie in the Day Room to hear about Faith Formation plans for this summer and the 2025-26 school year.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections resumes this week. We’ll start right at 10:00. This week, we’ll further develop the Creation story with the help of some of our caregivers. Your child will return to the sanctuary for communion.

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or 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: TRU Function will practice from 10:00-12:00 in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

  • Children and Youth Ministry Update (for grown ups): April 6, 9:00 a.m.: Pastor Kate and Julie will share some highlights of plans for Children and Youth ministry this summer and next programming year. Bring any questions, hopes, or wonderings you might have!

  • Amazing GRace (for Middle and High School Youth): Sunday, April 6 –RSVP to Julie

“The GRACE is run much like the popular CBS, TV reality show. Teams of Church Youth follow clues to make their way around the greater Madison area on a race to the finish line. Along the way, youth (as individuals and teams) complete an array of challenges to receive their next clue. 

Think of it as a mash-up of: ESCAPE ROOM, BIBLE STUDY, & RACE!

The first team to finish the GRACE will win a Trophy and the PRIZE POT will be donated to the CHARITY of their choosing! BUT…. all who participate are WINNERS!” Last year, our team WON and brought home the traveling trophy. We are invited back this year to defend our winning title. Additionally, our youth will have the opportunity to meet youth from other area UCC churches.

  • April 13, 9 am: Palm Sunday Intergenerational Faith Formation in Friendship Hall



In the Community

  • Saturday, April 5, 10:00-2:00, “Doing Justice Advocacy at UW Madison: A free event geared toward current high school students (or incoming college students) who are interested in learning more about justice advocacy at UW Madison. Sponsored by the Crossing ministry, a progressive ecumenical ministry for college students. Lunch provided! RSVP to director Michael Burch at the email: [email protected]

  • “Resilient Families” Conversations: Coping with Climate Change Anxiety: April 13, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Madison Friends Meetinghouse (Quaker) invites the community to participate in monthly conversations about challenges facing families today. April 13 features teen-led conversations on dealing with climate change and anxiety. Free dinner and childcare provided! See this document for more information.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Labyrinth Walk

On Sunday, March 23, all children and youth gathered together for a mindfulness labyrinth walk. Words from the Parable of the Fig Tree guided our wonderings, thoughts, and meditations. Have you, or someone you know, ever experienced a time when it took you a little longer to learn something or grow? Was there ever a time when you needed a little more patience? How did you find or give support? Where did you find God in those tough moments?

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.

Dear God, thank you for forgiving us when we make mistakes or hurt others. Help us to

always do the right thing, to apologize when we do something wrong, and to extend the same grace and forgiveness to others that we receive from you. Amen.

A Sanctified Art

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

ORUCC March 30 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 26, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, March 30, 2025

Dear Families,

Due to Spring Break, we will not hold 9 AM Faith Formation this Sunday. Your child is welcome to attend the 10 am Worship Service. Jade will be available in the Crossroads for Supported Childcare 8:30-11:30. This service allows parents or children ages 0-5 to socialize and engage in the service. Still, it encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child. Scroll to the end of this email for a special prayer practice your family can engage in together.

Music Opportunities this week: There will be no 10:00 a.m. Music Connections (1st Grade-6th grade). Children are encouraged to remain in worship with their families. TRU Function (youth band) will have their practice as normal from 10:00-noon.

Regular programming resumes next Sunday, April 6, with a special PreK-6 grade Faith Formation hour led by Ruthanne Landsness. The children will have the opportunity to view the quilts in Friendship Hall, draw their own “Welcome” quilt square, and participate in a short Spanish lesson!

On April 6th at At 9 AM, caregivers will be invited to join Pastor Kate and Julie downstairs in the Day Room to hear about Faith Formation plans for the 2025-26 school year.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Upcoming Events

  • Amazing GRace (for Middle and High School Youth): Sunday, April 6 –RSVP to Julie

“The GRACE is run much like the popular CBS, TV reality show. Teams of Church Youth follow clues to make their way around the greater Madison area on a race to the finish line. Along the way, youth (as individuals and teams) complete an array of challenges to receive their next clue.

Think of it as a mash-up of: ESCAPE ROOM, BIBLE STUDY, & RACE!

The first team to finish the GRACE will win a Trophy and the PRIZE POT will be donated to the CHARITY of their choosing! BUT…. all who participate are WINNERS!” Last year, our team WON and brought home the traveling trophy. We are invited back this year to defend our winning title. Additionally, our youth will have the opportunity to meet youth from other area UCC churches.

  • Family Game Night, April 4, 6:00-8:00 p.m.: Join with other families from ORUCC for this informal monthly gathering of merriment and fun! Bring a dish to pass and a game to share.

  • Children and Youth Faith Formation Plans Update, April 6, 9:00 a.m.: Pastor Kate and Julie Mazer will share a few updates on children and youth plans for summer and the next programming year. Bring your questions and ideas! The conversation is open to anyone interested in children and youth programming at ORUCC.

In the Community

  • “Resilient Families” Conversations, April 13, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Madison Friends Meetinghouse (Quaker) invites the community to participate in monthly conversations about challenges facing families today: April 13 will discuss talking about climate change. Free dinner and childcare provided! See this document for more information.

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.

At the close of our Labyrinth Walk last week, we shared this active prayer:

(Mountain) Stand straight and tall like the trunk of a tree. Take a deep breath in and out.

Imagine your feet digging deep into the earth like roots.

(Upward salute) Reach your arms as high as you can, like the branches of a tree reaching

to the sunshine.

(Rag doll) Now fold forward and let your arms dangle like the branches of a weeping willow

tree. Sway them back and forth.

(Child’s pose) Kneel down on the ground like a gardener working in the soil. Place your

hands on the ground and stretch them all the way forward.

(Table top pose) Bring your hands back under your shoulders and push up like a seed

pushing through the soil until your back is flat like a table.

(Cat/cow) Drop your belly and look up to the sky like you’re looking for fruit on a tall tree.

Now, arch your back and look down at the ground like you’re checking on the roots. Let’s

do this a few more times, slowly moving our bodies from looking up to looking down.

(Kneeling pose) Sit back on your knees and bring your palms together at your chest. Take

a few deep breaths and thank God for your body.

(Sanctified Arts)

.

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

ORUCC March 23 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 19, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, March 23, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week.  At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Supported Childcare Jade will be available in the Crossroads 8:30-11:30. This service allows parents to socialize and engage in the service but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well. 

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

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 the “Parable of the Fig Tree,” small groups of children and youth will have the opportunity to travel through our small labyrinth in the William Johnson Room. Those waiting to walk the labyrinth will be invited to freely explore artistic, tactile, and mindfulness stations. 

No Faith Formation on Sunday, March 30 due to Spring Break.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections:

Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for creative movement and xylophone play. We are in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer. Can you help? EMAIL JULIE

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or 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: TRU Function will practice from 10:00-12:00 in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

  • Amazing GRace (for Middle and High School Youth): Sunday, April 6 –RSVP to Julie

“The GRACE is run much like the popular CBS, TV reality show. Teams of Church Youth follow clues to make their way around the greater Madison area on a race to the finish line. Along the way, youth (as individuals and teams) complete an array of challenges to receive their next clue.

Think of it as a mash-up of: ESCAPE ROOM, BIBLE STUDY, & RACE!

The first team to finish the GRACE will win a Trophy and the PRIZE POT will be donated to the CHARITY of their choosing! BUT…. all who participate are WINNERS!” Last year, our team WON and brought home the traveling trophy. We are invited back this year to defend our winning title. Additionally, our youth will have the opportunity to meet youth from other area UCC churches.

In the Community

  • “Resilient Families” Conversations, March 16 and April 13, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Madison Friends Meetinghouse (Quaker) invites the community to participate in monthly conversations about challenges facing families today. March 16 focuses on social media usage, and April 13 on talking about climate change. Free dinner and childcare provided! See this document for more information.

  • Saturday, April 5, 10:00-2:00, “Doing Justice Advocacy at UW Madison: A free event geared toward current high school students (or incoming college students) who are interested in learning more about justice advocacy at UW Madison. Sponsored by the Crossing ministry, a progressive ecumenical ministry for college students. Lunch provided! RSVP to director Michael Burch at the email: [email protected]

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Worry Worms

On Sunday, March 16, a small group of children gathered in the Bridges Room to make “Worry Worms.” “A “worry worm” is a small, crocheted or knitted worm-shaped toy, often used as a tool to help children manage their emotions and anxieties by providing a tangible object to talk to or hold while expressing their worries.”  Once the children knew the pattern, they were able to engage in free conversation as they stitched. They openly shared thoughts about “big worries” and “small worries.” They shared openly about experiences of having worries keep them awake at night. They reflected upon how we often forget the good moments of our days, but remember, at times obsessively, about our mistakes and our faults. No solutions or problem-solving was offered. Just a safe space and an agreement that we all experience those same thoughts and feelings.

Want to try to make a worry worm? Check out THIS pattern. Crochet experience is needed for this project. There are many tutorials on YouTube and resources through the Madison Public Library.

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.

This prayer is adapted from a prayer used during the All Church Retreat last weekend. You are invited to include some hand motions while praying, indicated in italics below.

Open our eyes (place hands over eyes)

open our ears (place hands over ears)

open our hearts (place hands over heart)

That we may come to know You, Our God (lift hands to the sky)

in the beauty of nature (open hands out wide)

in the joy of fellowship (hold hands together)

in the movement of our bodies (wiggle your body!)

in the silence of contemplation. (make prayer hands)

Amen.

.

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

ORUCC March 16 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 12, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, March 16, 2025

Dear Families,

Several of our families will join in community together this weekend at the All Church Retreat at Daycholah Center. We will not hold 9 am Faith Formation this Sunday, but at 10 am children are welcome to attend worship and Music Connections. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

NO 9 AM FAITH FORMATION

Due to the All Church Retreat, we will not hold Faith Formation this Sunday.

Faith Formation will meet on Sunday, March 23, for a labyrinth walk for all children and youth.

No Faith Formation on Sunday, March 30 due to Spring Break.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections WILL meet this Sunday

Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for creative movement and ukulele play. Bethany will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or 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: TRU Function will practice from 10:00-12:00 in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

  • Amazing GRace (for Middle and High School Youth): Sunday, April 6 –RSVP to Julie

“The GRACE is run much like the popular CBS, TV reality show. Teams of Church Youth follow clues to make their way around the greater Madison area on a race to the finish line. Along the way, youth (as individuals and teams) complete an array of challenges to receive their next clue. Think of it as a mash-up of: ESCAPE ROOM, BIBLE STUDY, & RACE!

The first team to finish the GRACE will win a Trophy and the PRIZE POT will be donated to the CHARITY of their choosing! BUT…. all who participate are WINNERS!” Last year, our team WON and brought home the traveling trophy. We are invited back this year to defend our winning title. Additionally, our youth will have the opportunity to meet youth from other area UCC churches.

In the Community

  • “Resilient Families” Conversations, March 16 and April 13, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Madison Friends Meetinghouse (Quaker) invites the community to participate in monthly conversations about challenges facing families today. March 16 focuses on social media usage, and April 13 on talking about climate change. Free dinner and childcare provided! See this document for more information.
  • Saturday, April 5, 10:00-2:00, “Doing Justice Advocacy at UW Madison: A free event geared toward current high school students (or incoming college students) who are interested in learning more about justice advocacy at UW Madison. Sponsored by the Crossing ministry, a progressive ecumenical ministry for college students. Lunch provided! RSVP to director Michael Burch at the email: [email protected]

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.

At the close of our Intergenerational Faith Formation last week, we shared this prayer:

Dear God, thank you for our friends and family. Help us to be kind to everyone we meet, not just the people we know or the people we like. We want to be more like Jesus, who welcomed everyone. Amen.

(Sanctified Arts)

.

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

ORUCC March 9 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 5, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, March 9, 2025

*Daylight Savings Begins – Set Clocks One Hour Back*

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. This coming Sunday is the First Sunday of Lent. There will be a special all-ages faith formation event at 9:00 a.m. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events, photos of recent events, and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Intergenerational Faith Formation 9:00 a.m.: All are welcome to attend an all-ages faith formation event for the first Sunday of Lent! Together, we will share story-telling and faith reflection led by Julie Mazer and conversation while we write cards to new and old friends, draw, and even act out a skit! This will be in place of regular children’s, youth, and adult faith formation for this Sunday.

Due to the All Church Retreat, There will not be 9 am Faith Formation next Sunday, March 16. Music Connections will be offered that day at 10 am.

Faith Formation will meet on Sunday, March 23, for a labyrinth walk.

No Faith Formation on Sunday, March 30 due to Spring Break.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections resumes this week. Following the children’s moment, children in grades 2-6 are invited to the downstairs Bonhoeffer room. This week, we’ll continue our exploration of the Creation story. We’ll fine-tune our soundscape by using a variety of instruments to represent nature and animals. Your child will return to the sanctuary for communion. Owen will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or 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: TRU Function will practice from 10:00-12:00 in the Haynes Music Room.

Upcoming Events

  • Amazing GRace (for Middle and High School Youth): Sunday, April 6 –RSVP to Julie

“The GRACE is run much like the popular CBS, TV reality show. Teams of Church Youth follow clues to make their way around the greater Madison area on a race to the finish line. Along the way, youth (as individuals and teams) complete an array of challenges to receive their next clue.

Think of it as a mash-up of: ESCAPE ROOM, BIBLE STUDY, & RACE!

The first team to finish the GRACE will win a Trophy and the PRIZE POT will be donated to the CHARITY of their choosing! BUT…. all who participate are WINNERS!” Last year, our team WON and brought home the traveling trophy. We are invited back this year to defend our winning title. Additionally, our youth will have the opportunity to meet youth from other area UCC churches.

In the Community

  • “Resilient Families” Conversations, March 16 and April 13, 5:00-7:30 p.m.: Madison Friends Meetinghouse (Quaker) invites the community to participate in monthly conversations about challenges facing families today. March 16 focuses on social media usage, and April 13 on talking about climate change. Free dinner and childcare provided! See this document for more information.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Earth Quilt

On Sunday, February 2, all children and youth gathered together to begin work on a collaborative quilt. Words from The Parable of the Mustard Seed prompted wondering about things that start small and grow bigger. Not only do plants grow, but so do hope, love, peace, and joy. Our quilt will also start small and grow bigger. Quilts are often given to provide warmth and as a gesture of love. Many of the fabrics we will use were also used in projects to support other causes, like quilts for the people of Gaza. Using these materials connects us to others around the world and reminds us of the warmth of God’s Love.

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.

*On Sunday, March 3, the children heard a story about how Ruth and Naomi found safety and acceptance after traveling from Moab to Bethlehem. This moral beautifully echos our church’s dedication to social justice. At the end of class, the children joined together in this prayer.

God, your compassion was not just sentiment and a suggestion to be nice to people. You enacted laws to make sure that the vulnerable in society were cared for. Help us move beyond empathy and feelings and take actions that will make a fair, equitable, and sustainable world for all people. Amen.

(from “Shine Curriculum”).

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

ORUCC February 23 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 19, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, February 23, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events, photos of recent events, and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Jade are ready to play with your little one.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

ALL PreK-HS Grade Children and Youth will meet in the Bridges Room this Sunday. We’ll start with the story, “Jubilee” from the book of Leviticus. Following the story and reflection, the children will continue to work on their quilt squares. For the next month, Nancy Wettersten will guide us in making a collaborative quilt. Each child/youth is invited to design a square on the theme of “Earth.” Together, we will create something big from something small. See below for more photos of our time together.

*Our work will continue over the next two weeks. Your child has time to participate even if they cannot attend this Sunday. Ideally, they can participate in Faith Formation at least twice between February 2 and March 2 to complete their square.*

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am. 

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections will not meet this week. Children are invited to attend worship to support TruFunction.

TRU Function: TRU Function will play in worship this week. Practice begins at 8:30 a.m.!

Upcoming Events

  • March 2, 9:00 a.m. Safe Sanctuary “Refresher”: Every year we take a moment to review the “Safe Sanctuary” policy adopted by ORUCC to provide a safe, welcoming environment for all children. All volunteers with children and youth must abide by this policy. Pastor Kate will review Safe Sanctuary for any interested adults during the 9:00 hour on March 2nd.
  • March 9, 9:00 a.m. All-Ages Faith Formation
  • March 14-16, Lenten All-Church Retreat at Daycholah Center. Take some time in the beauty of Green Lake to rest, play, and renew your faith with friends old and new. Sign up today! https://forms.gle/mo9rPyDD6jNy8Q4XA

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Earth Quilt

On Sunday, February 2, all children and youth gathered together to begin work on a collaborative quilt. Words from The Parable of the Mustard Seed prompted wondering about things that start small and grow bigger. Not only do plants grow, but so do hope, love, peace, and joy. Our quilt will also start small and grow bigger. Quilts are often given to provide warmth and as a gesture of love. Many of the fabrics we will use were also used in projects to support other causes, like quilts for the people of Gaza. Using these materials connects us to others around the world and reminds us of the warmth of God’s Love.

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.

God of creation, thank you for the beauty of winter- for snow, icy window panes, evergreen trees, warm coats, sledding, and hot cocoa. Let us enjoy your creation in all its glory, this winter and always.



(Author Unknown)

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

ORUCC February 16 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 12, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, February 16, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events, photos of recent events, and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

ALL PreK-6th Grade Children will meet in the Bridges Room this Sunday. We’ll start with the story, “Prison to Palace” from the book of Genesis. Following the story and reflection, the children will continue to work on their quilt squares. For the next month, Nancy Wettersten will guide us in making a collaborative quilt. Each child/youth is invited to design a square on the theme of “Earth.” Together, we will create something big from something small. See below for more photos of our time together.

*Our work will continue over the next three weeks. Your child has time to participate even if they cannot attend this Sunday. Ideally, they can participate in Faith Formation at least twice between February 2 and March 2 to complete their square.*

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am. 

Youth Faith Formation (7th Grade-High School) will meet at 9:00 a.m. in the Dorothy Day room for the second of a two-week series exploring Palestinian Justice with Diane Dulin (co-Chair of ORUCC Palestinian Justice Mission Team). This week we will continue our conversation inspired by the short film documentary, My Neighbourhood. You don’t need to have seen the film to participate in the upcoming conversation, but anyone who did not have a chance to watch this film can view it online at home, too.

Any youth who would like to contribute to the children and youth quilt (described above) will have an opportunity to do so on February 23 or March 2.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for Music Connections. This week, the children will continue their exploration of the Creation Story through sound and creative movement. Bethany S. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or 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: Youth who are in TRU Function will meet in the Haynes music room from 10:00-noon for regular practice.

Upcoming Events

  • March 2, 9:00 a.m. Safe Sanctuary “Refresher”: Every year we take a moment to review the “Safe Sanctuary” policy adopted by ORUCC to provide a safe, welcoming environment for all children. All volunteers with children and youth must abide by this policy. Pastor Kate will review Safe Sanctuary for any interested adults during the 9:00 hour on March 2nd.
  • March 9, 9:00 a.m. All-Ages Faith Formation
  • March 14-16, Lenten All-Church Retreat at Daycholah Center. Take some time in the beauty of Green Lake to rest, play, and renew your faith with friends old and new. Sign up today! https://forms.gle/mo9rPyDD6jNy8Q4XA

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Earth Quilt

On Sunday, February 2, all children and youth gathered together to begin work on a collaborative quilt. Words from The Parable of the Mustard Seed prompted wondering about things that start small and grow bigger. Not only do plants grow, but so do hope, love, peace, and joy. Our quilt will also start small and grow bigger. Quilts are often given to provide warmth and as a gesture of love. Many of the fabrics we will use were also used in projects to support other causes, like quilts for the people of Gaza. Using these materials connects us to others around the world and reminds us of the warmth of God’s Love.

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.

For this week’s prayer practice, turn on THIS VIDEO. Invite your children to close their eyes and silently listen to the sound of the water for one to two minutes. As the river sounds continue, read these lines several times slowly:

The Spirit says, “Come.”

Let all who are thirsty come.

Let everyone receive the living water as a gift.

Come.



(From Path to Peace with Creation, Shine Curriculum)

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

ORUCC February 9 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 5, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, February 9, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events, photos of recent events, and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

ALL PreK-6th Grade Children will meet in the Bridges Room this Sunday. We’ll start with a story of the “A New Creation” from the book of Revelation. Following the story and reflection, the children will continue to work on their quilt squares. For the next month, Nancy Wettersten will guide us in making a collaborative quilt. Each child/youth is invited to design a square on the theme of “Earth.” Together, we will create something big from something small. See below for more photos of our time together.

*Our work will continue over the next three weeks. Your child has time to participate even if they cannot attend this Sunday. Ideally, they can participate in Faith Formation at least twice between February 2 and March 2 to complete their square.*

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am. 

Youth Faith Formation (7th Grade-High School) will meet at 9:00 a.m. in the Dorothy Day room for the first of a two-week series exploring Palestinian Justice with Diane Dulin (co-Chair of ORUCC Palestinian Justice Mission Team). This week we will watch an inspiring short film documentary, My Neighbourhood, and discuss the work of a young activist in the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood of Jerusalem.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for Music Connections. This week, the children will continue their exploration of the Creation Story through sound. We are in need of a music connections volunteer this week. Can you help?

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or 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: Youth who are in TRU Function will meet in the Haynes music room from 10:00-noon for regular practice.

Upcoming Events

  • Friday, February 7, 6:30-8:00 Family Game Night at ORUCC. Bring a game and a dish to share at this relaxed gathering of fun and fellowship.
  • February 9 and 16, Youth Faith Formation (7th-HS) at 9:00 a.m. will feature a documentary viewing and conversation of Palestinian Justice with Diane Dulin, a member of our ORUCC Palestinian Justice mission team.
  • March 2, 9:00 a.m. Safe Sanctuary “Refresher”: Every year we take a moment to review the “Safe Sanctuary” policy adopted by ORUCC to provide a safe, welcoming environment for all children. All volunteers with children and youth must abide by this policy. Pastor Kate will review Safe Sanctuary for any interested adults during the 9:00 hour on March 2nd.
  • March 14-16 Lenten All-Church Retreat at Daycholah Center. Take some time in the beauty of Green Lake to rest, play, and renew your faith with friends old and new. Sign up today! https://forms.gle/mo9rPyDD6jNy8Q4XA

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Earth Quilt

On Sunday, February 2, all children and youth gathered together to begin work on a collaborative quilt. Words from The Parable of the Mustard Seed prompted wondering about things that start small and grow bigger. Not only do plants grow, but so do hope, love, peace, and joy. Our quilt will also start small and grow bigger. Quilts are often given to provide warmth and as a gesture of love. Many of the fabrics we will use were also used in projects to support other causes, like quilts for the people of Gaza. Using these materials connects us to others around the world and reminds us of the warmth of God’s Love.

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).

Crouch down as small as you can with your child. As you read the prayer, slowly rise until your arms are fully outstretched overhead, like a tree. Repeat the body prayer several times.

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, Shine Curriculum)

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

ORUCC February 2 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 29, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, February 2, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events, photos of recent events, and a prayer to try as a family this week.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

ALL CHILDREN AND YOUTH will meet in the Bridges Room this Sunday. We’ll start with a story of the Parable of the Mustard Seed and then introduce our collaborative art project! For the next month, Nancy Wettersten will guide us in making a quilt. Each child/youth is invited to design a square on the theme of “Earth.” Together, we will create something big from something small.

*Our work will continue over the next four weeks. Your child has time to participate even if they cannot attend this Sunday. Ideally, they can participate in Faith Formation at least twice between February 2 and March 2 to complete their square.*

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am. 

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for Music Connections. This week, the children will continue their exploration of the Creation Story through sound. Owen will be our Music Connections Volunteer. 

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or 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: Youth who are in TRU Function will meet in the Haynes music room from 10:00-noon for regular practice.

Upcoming Events

  • Sunday, February 2, All-Church Annual Meeting after worship. Come to hear more about what’s ahead in the life of the congregation. Members of ORUCC will have an opportunity to vote on the annual budget and other topics important to the life of the church, but all are welcome!
  • Sunday, February 2, 1:30-3:30: Speed Puzzling! at Bethany UMC 3910 Mineral Point Road. Registration is required for the teams of four. Casual puzzlers and spectators do not need to register ahead of time. Register Here.
  • Teams of four race to complete a 500-piece puzzle
  • Prizes awarded for 1st and 2nd place finishers, as well as the fastest “newbie” team
  • Casual Puzzling Tables
  • Swap Table (drop off or pick up gently-used puzzles)
  • Door Prizes
  • Light refreshments
  • Friday, February 7, 6:30-8:00 Family Game Night at ORUCC. Bring a game and a dish to share at this relaxed gathering of fun and fellowship.
  • February 9 and 16, Youth Faith Formation (7th-HS) at 9:00 a.m. will feature a documentary viewing and conversation of Palestinian Justice with Diane Dulin, a member of our ORUCC Palestinian Justice mission team.
  • March 14-16 Save the date for our Lenten All-Church Retreat at Daycholah Center. More details to come soon!

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Labyrinth Walk

On Sunday, January 19, all children and youth gathered together for a mindfulness labyrinth walk. Words from the Book of Job (story, “Job and the Whirlwind”) guided our wonderings, thoughts, and meditations. Have you, or someone you know, ever gone through a time where everything is going wrong? How did you find or give support? Where did you find God in those tough moments?

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). Take a few deep breaths together, close your eyes and hold hands, or hold your hands over your hearts, and share:

Peace, peace, peace,

peace in our hearts,

peace.

Peace in our minds,

peace.

Peace when we wake,

peace when we sleep,

peace shining bright in our lives.

(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

ORUCC January 26 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 22, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, January 26, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and photos of recent events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care is available 8:30-11:30. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

PreK-1 (William Johnson Room): Children are invited to sing with Julie in the William Johnson room at 9:00-9:15. After the music, their classroom “guides,” Jill and Julie H., will lead the children in the story, “How the Church Tells Time.” 

2-6 grade (Ruby Bridges Room): This week, the children will continue our new curriculum, “Path to Peace with Creation” (Shine Curriculum). Each week, we’ll explore scripture related to nature, peace, and community with multi-sensory experiences. This week’s focus is the story, “Wolves and Lambs” (from Isaiah 65:17-25). The children will read scripture, listen to sounds of nature, create images using natural materials, paint, wonder, and sing. Josie and Jenny will guide the children through the experience. 

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am. 

Youth (7th-High School) will meet at 9:00 a.m. in the Dorothy Day room for “Breakfast Club” with Pastor Kate and Al. This week we are talking about “what’s next” for our youth faith formation class. We look forward to getting input from any youth who can come for the discussion!

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections will not meet this week. Children are invited to stay in worship that day to support our teens in TruFunction. Music Connections resumes on 2/2.

TRU Function: No practice this week. A small group will be playing in worship. Regular practice will resume on 2/2.

Upcoming Events

  • Chili Cookoff this Sunday after worship! Come to taste and vote for your favorites.
  • Sunday, February 2, 1:30-3:30: Speed Puzzling! at Bethany UMC 3910 Mineral Point Road. Registration is required for the teams of four. Casual puzzlers and spectators do not need to register ahead of time. Register Here.
  • Teams of four race to complete a 500-piece puzzle
  • Prizes awarded for 1st and 2nd place finishers, as well as the fastest “newbie” team
  • Casual Puzzling Tables
  • Swap Table (drop off or pick up gently-used puzzles)
  • Door Prizes
  • Light refreshments
  • Friday, February 7, 6:30-8:00 Family Game Night at ORUCC. Bring a game and a dish to share at this relaxed gathering of fun and fellowship.
  • March 14-16 Save the date for our Lenten All-Church Retreat at Daycholah Center. More details to come soon!

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Labyrinth Walk

On Sunday, January 19, all children and youth gathered together for a mindfulness labyrinth walk. Words from the Book of Job (story, “Job and the Whirlwind”) guided our wonderings, thoughts, and meditations. Have you, or someone you know, ever gone through a time where everything is going wrong? How did you find or give support? Where did you find God in those tough moments?

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

ORUCC January 19 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 15, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, January 19, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and photos of recent events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Supported Childcare Jade will be available in the Crossroads 8:30-11:30. This service allows parents to socialize and engage in the service but encourages parents to stay nearby to assist their child, as well.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

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 the story, “Job and the Whirlwind,” small groups of children and youth will have the opportunity to travel through our small labyrinth in the William Johnson Room. Those waiting to walk the labyrinth will be invited to freely explore artistic, tactile, and mindfulness stations. 

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for Music Connections. This week, the children will continue their exploration of the Creation Story through sound. Bethany will be our Music Connections Volunteer.

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or 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 (youth band) will practice this Sunday from 10:00-noon in the Haynes Music Room. 

Upcoming Event

  • Sunday, February 2, 1:30-3:30: Speed Puzzling! at Bethany UMC 3910 Mineral Point Road. Registration is required for the teams of four. Casual puzzlers and spectators do not need to register ahead of time. Register Here.
  • Teams of four race to complete a 500-piece puzzle
  • Prizes awarded for 1st and 2nd place finishers, as well as the fastest “newbie” team
  • Casual Puzzling Tables
  • Swap Table (drop off or pick up gently-used puzzles)
  • Door Prizes
  • Light refreshments
  • March 14-16 Save the date for our Lenten All-Church Retreat at Daycholah Center. More details to come soon!

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Intergenerational Faith Formation

On Sunday, January 5, 35 children and adults gathered with Julie in Friendship Hall for an Intergenerational Faith Formation experience. Together, we heard the Christmas Story, arriving at the Magi’s meeting of the Christ Child. Following the story, we engaged in conversation, coloring, and the creation of beaded stars. It was powerful to begin our new year in community and creativity.

Quote of the Week:

During Music Connections, Julie led a Christmas Eve reflection. The children were prompted to share what they remembered and enjoyed. June shared, 

“I got to express myself through music.”

Following a reflection of the Creation Story during the 9 am Faith Formation time with 3-6 graders, the children were invited to, “Create an animal (real or imaginary) out of the nature items.” Above is a photo of their creations.

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

ORUCC January 12 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 8, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, January 12, 2025

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events and photos of recent events.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Supported Childcare opens at 8:30 am. Jade will be available in the Crossroads to asssit with childcare.

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

PreK-1 (William Johnson Room): Children are invited to sing with Julie in the William Johnson room at 9:00-9:15. After the music, their classroom “guides,” Marcia and Karen, will lead the children in the story, “The The Best Ways to Live.” 

2-6 grade (Ruby Bridges Room): This week, the children will begin a new curriculum, “Path to Peace with Creation” (Shine Curriculum). Each week, we’ll explore scripture related to nature, peace, and community with multi-sensory experiences. This week’s focus is the Creation Story. The children will read scripture, listen to sounds of nature, create images using natural materials, paint, wonder, and sing. Josie and Hal will guide the children through the experience.

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am. 

Youth (7th-High School) will meet at 9:00 a.m. for “Coexist” with Kristin and Susan.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for Music Connections. This week, the children will explore the Creation Story through sound. Owen will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or 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 (youth band) will practice this Sunday from 10:00-noon in the Haynes Music Room. 

Upcoming Events

  • Family Game Night, January 10, 6:00-8:00 p.m.: (moved to the second Friday this month) This casual, all-ages game night is open to all. Bring a potluck item and game to share, if you’d like! All are welcome to attend this laid-back gathering for fun and friendship.
  • Deadline extended! January 20: MLK Day Children’s Service Day, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.: Representatives from Beth Israel Center, Madinah Academy of Madison, Madison Christian Community, and First Congregational are working together to present One Day…Weaving Hope, a Madison Area Interfaith MLK Day children’s event. Children, grades 1-8, will gather to celebrate the life and work of Dr. King through community building, cooperative games, art, service projects, and social justice activities. Last Day to Register is January 12! Please visit First Congregational UCC website to register: https://www.firstcongmadison.org/
  • Speed Puzzling! Sunday, February 2, 1:30-3:30 at Bethany UMC 3910 Mineral Point Road. Registration is required for the teams of four. Casual puzzlers and spectators do not need to register ahead of time. Register Here.
  • Teams of four race to complete a 500-piece puzzle
  • Prizes awarded for 1st and 2nd place finishers, as well as the fastest “newbie” team
  • Casual Puzzling Tables
  • Swap Table (drop off or pick up gently-used puzzles)
  • Door Prizes
  • Light refreshments

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Quote of the Week:

During Music Connections, Julie led a Christmas Eve reflection. The children were prompted to share what they remembered and enjoyed. June shared,

“I got to express myself through music.”

Intergenerational Faith Formation

On Sunday, January 5, 35 children and adults gathered with Julie in Friendship Hall for an Intergenerational Faith Formation experience. Together, we heard the Christmas Story, arriving at the Magi’s meeting of the Christ Child. Following the story, we engaged in conversation, coloring, and the creation of beaded stars. It was powerful to begin our new year in community and creativity.

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

ORUCC January 5 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 1, 2025

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, January 5, 2025

Dear Families, Happy New Year week! We are so grateful to be in ministry together at ORUCC. This coming Sunday is Epiphany. There will be a special all-ages faith formation event at 9:00 a.m. Please read below for details about this, and other upcoming events.

Nursery Care is not available this week. Families are welcome to use the space and materials in the Crossroads. You are also welcome to visit the nursery with your child.

Intergenerational Faith Formation 9:00 a.m.: All are welcome to attend an all-ages faith formation event for Epiphany Sunday! Together, we will share story-telling and faith reflection led by Julie Mazer and conversation while we make beaded stars to take home. This will be in place of regular children’s, youth, and adult faith formation for this Sunday.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Following the children’s moment in worship, children in grades 2-6 are invited to join Julie downstairs in the Friedrich Bonhoeffer room for creative movement and ukulele play. We are in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer. Can you assist?

Older youth are invited to stay in worship or 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 (youth band)

  • Upcoming Events
  • January 10: Family Game Night 6:30-8:00 p.m., has been moved to the SECOND Friday night of January to accommodate holiday travels. All are welcome to attend this laid-back potluck gathering for fun and friendship.
  • January 20: MLK Day Children’s Service Day, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.: Representatives from Beth Israel Center, Madinah Academy of Madison, Madison Christian Community, and First Congregational are working together to present One Day…Weaving Hope, a Madison Area Interfaith MLK Day children’s event. Children, grades 1-8, will gather to celebrate the life and work of Dr. King through community building, cooperative games, art, service projects, and social justice activities. Last Day to Register is January 5! Please visit First Congregational UCC website to register: https://www.firstcongmadison.org/

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

ORUCC December 29 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 26, 2024

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, December 29, 2024

Dear Families, A Hearty Thank You to those who were able to actively worship with us on December 24, and a Warm Hug and Hello to those who kept us in their hearts from afar. Now is the time to rest and recharge. We will not hold 9 AM Faith Formation this Sunday. Your child is welcome to attend the 10 am Worship Service. Nursery Care/Supported Childcare is also off this Sunday.

Programming resumes next Sunday, January 5, with a special Intergenerational Faith Formation at 9 AM. John Leonard’s delicious Epiphany breads will be shared following worship that day, as well.

As your family recharges this week, we invite you to explore the following devotion from “Advent at the Kids Table,” by Daryn Stylianopoulos, Lin Story-Bunce, Kendall Grubb, and June Bunce.

ISAIAH 9:2

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

With all the candles now lit on our Advent wreath, the light is so warm and bright. That light can serve as a reminder of all the many sources of light around us, of their radiance and brilliance.

Stars are so bright that we can see them from billions of miles away. That’s very far indeed! The sun is the closest star to our planet-the light of our world. It helps things grow and gives us warmth. It helps us know what time it is and where to go. The sun is necessary to all living things on our planet.

Some of the same materials and elements that make up stars are also a part of our bodies. And just like stars, we have light that we can share and shine in this world. Have you ever seen someone so full of joy that they seem to light up? Or noticed a warmth inside your heart when someone does something kind for you— or when you do something kind for someone else? And there are people you know who help you grow, and show you the way to go in life, and who make you feel loved. They are like stars in our world, shining their light.

Jesus was a light to many—he offered food to the hungry, and he showed kindness and love to people around him that felt left out and alone. Jesus’s light shined brightly through the love he demonstrated in his living. We can do the same for one another: we can be bright lights, little stars, in the world.

You are radiant! Shine your light!

BLESSING

God of Love,

Help the light and love within me to shine brightly for the world.

Amen.

KIDS TABLE TALK

• What makes your heart light up?

• Where have you seen love lighting up the world around you this week?

Was someone especially kind at school? Did you see a friend offer to help when someone got hurt?

• What are ways that you can shine kindness and love in your own school or community?

COMING UP…

  • January 5: Epiphany Sunday All-Ages Faith Formation, 9:00 a.m.
  • January 10: Family Game Night 6:30-8:00 p.m., has been moved to the SECOND Friday night of January to accommodate holiday travels. All are welcome to attend this laid-back potluck gathering for fun and friendship.
  • January 20: MLK Day Children’s Service Day, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.: Representatives from Beth Israel Center, Madinah Academy of Madison, Madison Christian Community, and First Congregational are working together to present One Day…Weaving Hope, a Madison Area Interfaith MLK Day children’s event. Children, grades 1-8, will gather to celebrate the life and work of Dr. King through community building, cooperative games, art, service projects, and social justice activities. REGISTER by January 5 by visiting https://www.firstcongmadison.org/

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

ORUCC December 8 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 4, 2024

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, December 8, 2024

Dear Families, We look forward to seeing you this Sunday! We have many Christmas events and preparations coming up, in addition to our regular 9:00 a.m. Faith Formation programming. Please read on for more details.

Nursery Care opens at 8:30 am. Abby and Najma are ready to play with your little one!

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

PreK-2 (William Johnson Room): Children are invited to sing with Julie in the William Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. We’ll rehearse the songs “The Friendly Beasts” and “Go, Tell It On The Mountain” for our Christmas Eve service. After the music, Jill and Hal will guide the children in Advent stories about the Prophets and Mary and Joseph.

3-6 grade (Ruby Bridges Room): This class will also explore the Prophets and Mary and Joseph. Exploration stations will include writing Christmas cards to church elders, designing Hearts for our Christmas Eve service, painting, sand play, and puzzles. Josie and Megan will guide the children in their learning. 

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am. Children grades 2-6 who are participating in the Christmas Eve service will move immediately to rehearse downstairs from 10-11:15 a.m. (they will not begin in worship).

Youth (7th-High School) will assist with preparations for the Cookie Sale! Even if a youth is unable to attend the service trip this summer, they are still invited to join the group in fellowship as they get set up.

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

Music Connections: Children participating in the Christmas Eve service will rehearse downstairs from 10-11:15 am.  Your patience and flexibility as we move through this season is appreciated!  Please note that children will not attend worship. Anyone not participating in Christmas Eve is still invited to be downstairs. There will be opportunities for the children to design Hearts, write Christmas cards for our church elders, and draw Christmas scenes for our program. George will be our Music Connections volunteer. 

TRU Function (youth band) will continue their preparations for the Christmas Eve service at with practice from 10:00-Noon on Sunday.

Upcoming Events

  • Youth Service Trip 2025 (youth entering 8th-H.S. grad eligible) will be June 15-21 in Kansas City, MO! If you have not turned in your initial deposit of $300, please do so ASAP! The first fundraiser, our Christmas cookie sale, is December 8. Talk to Pastor Kate for more details!
  • Moon Beach Family Camp: registration will begin December 16! Friends from ORUCC usually attend the week hosted by the Boyd’s, June 29-July 5, 2025. Registration filled up very quickly last year.
  • Children and Youth Faith Formation Thank You! On Sunday December 22, there will be a light drop-in breakfast set up for all of our children and youth faith formation guides who have been part of making our programming a success this fall.
  • Children and Youth Music Showcase, December 22 after worship: If your child would like to perform a piece, please talk to Julie Mazer.
  • Christmas Eve Services are December 24: Our beloved Children and Youth-led service will be at 3:00 p.m., with the traditional service in collaboration with Madison Mennonite Church at 5:30 p.m.

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

ORUCC December 1 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 27, 2024

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, December 1, 2024

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 event at 9:00 a.m. Please read below for details about this, and other upcoming events.

Nursery Care is not available this week. Families are welcome to use the space and materials in the Crossroads. You are also welcome to visit the nursery with your child.

Intergenerational Faith Formation 9:00 a.m.: We

Don’t be a Grinch–as they say, your heart may grow three sizes this day! 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 Pastor Kate 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 for Children and Youth

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. Kate will serve communion to the children downstairs after worship. 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 be downstairs. There will be opportunities for the children to design LOVE hearts, write Christmas cards for our church elders, and draw Christmas scenes for our program. George Gillis will be our Music Connections volunteer. For more information about our Christmas Eve Program or to sign your child up, please click HERE.

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

Upcoming Events

  • Thanksgiving Day Birdie Derby Run/Walk: Rob Martens has set up an ORUCC team (“Fruit of the Spirit’s Not a Cranberry”) to participate in the annual Birdie Derby Thanksgiving Day Run/Walk on Nov. 28. It’s too late to register for a team shirt, but you can still join us for the event. Register HERE.

  • Youth Service Trip 2025 (youth entering 8th-H.S. grad eligible) will be June 15-21 in Kansas City, MO! An initial deposit of $300 is due by December 1. The first fundraiser, our Christmas cookie sale, is December 8. Talk to Pastor Kate for more details!



  • Christmas Eve Services are December 24: Our beloved Children and Youth-led service will be at 3:00 p.m., with the traditional service in collaboration with Madison Mennonite Church at 5:30 p.m.

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

ORUCC Service Trip Updates and Response Needed

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 22, 2024

Hello (potential) Service Trip families! 
Thank you to those who have paid the $300 deposit already. Our website link for donation is up and running now. Please see here to pay online, if you would like. If you are interested in a scholarship, or need an alternative payment plan, please don't hesitate to let me know. 
Our Christmas Cookie fundraiser is coming up, December 8! 
Please see the following information from our Cookie planning team (Laura, Sara, Jerry, Rachael, Jared):
The Christmas Cookie and Bake Sale is coming on Sunday, Dec 8th! We are asking each family to make 8 dozen cookies to contribute to the bake sale. You are also welcome to make specialty items (e.g. sweet breads or fancy cookies) to be priced separately. Please also sign up for other jobs using this Sign Up Genius, such as set up, clean up, and cashiering. Also read these additional instructions. Let us know if you have any questions!
Grace and peace,
Kate 

—

Rev. Kate Mackey
(she/her/hers)
Associate Pastor for Children, Youth, and Families
Orchard Ridge UCC
1501 Gilbert Rd.
Madison, WI 53711
Office: (608) 271-7212 ex. 2030
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to one another.” -Mother Teresa 

*Please note: Outside of Sunday and evenings by appointment, my primary working hours are Monday-Thursday from 8:00 am-2:00 pm. I take Friday and Saturday as sabbath days and may not respond quickly to my email during those times. 

ORUCC October 27 Children and Youth News

Orchard Ridge UCC on October 23, 2024

ORUCC Children and Youth

Faith Formation Update

Sunday, October 27, 2024

Dear Families,

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday. Read on below for details about this week. At the bottom of the email, you will find some important dates for some fun events–including our yearly Treinen Farms Event this Friday, on October 25th! Be sure to continue reading to see a few photos from the children’s bread-making experience on 10/20.

~Pastor Kate and Julie M.

Nursery Care opens at 8:30 am. Najma and Jenny are ready to play with your little one!

Children and Youth Faith Formation is at 9 am. 

ALL Children PreK-6th grade will gather in the William Johnson room to learn about the plastic bag recycling project with Jill. After the discussion,

PreK-1 Children will stay in the William Johnson room. Their classroom “guides,” Karen and Marcia, will lead the children in the story, “The Good Shepherd and the Lost Sheep.”

3-6 grade children will shift to the Ruby Bridges Room to experience the Parable of the Mustard Seed with hands-on felt props. Following the story, the children will be invited to explore multi-sensory stations to deepen their understanding of the text. Real mustard seeds will be used for crafts, and the morning will even include a mustard taste test! Kristin and Hal will guide the children in their learning.

Your child will wait for you in the classroom before moving to the sanctuary for worship at 10 am.

Youth (7th-High School) will meet at 9:00 a.m. for “Breakfast Club” with Pastor Kate. Breakfast Club is a time for fellowship and connection amongst the youth, approximately once a month. This Sunday we will be help set up the Hurricane Disaster Relief* project so that the congregation can be ready to participate after worship.

*This is an all-ages, all-church project! If you would like to bring supplies to fill disaster relief buckets through Church World Service on October 27, please sign up here

Music Opportunities for Children and Youth

TRU Function (youth band) will have its first performance this week during worship! TRU Function meets to prepare for worship beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Music Connections will not meet this week. Children are invited to stay in worship that day to support our teens in TruFunction. Music Connections resumes on 11/3.

Upcoming Events

  • Treinen Farms Bonfire & Corn Maze, October 25, 6:00-9:00 p.m.: Come for the beloved all-ages event up at Treinen Farms in Lodi! The church will have a bonfire pit reserved and s’mores supplies. Each family is responsible for their individual admission tickets. You can reserve online for a discounted price (please contact Pastor Kate for scholarship help)
  • All-Ages Children & Youth Labyrinth Walk, November 3, 9:00 a.m.: Our children and youth will participate in a labyrinth walk and contemplative experience on November 3rd in lieu of traditional Fatih Formation. All children and youth will gather together in the education wing to begin.

At Orchard Ridge, we are Spiritually Alive!

Children’s Bread-Baking Experience

Last Sunday, October 20, ten children ages 3-11 gathered with John in the kitchen for an opportunity to bake unleavened bread. This experience followed an exploration of the Parable of the Leaven on October 13 during 9 am Faith Formation. While stirring and rolling, the children learned about the significance of unleavened bread and how gas bubbles up once the dough is leavened with yeast. Each child was able to take home their loaf to enjoy with their families.

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

ORUCC Youth Updates & Feedback Requested!

Orchard Ridge UCC on September 16, 2024

Dear friends,

Fall is in full swing! I hope that everyone is getting settled into the new school year. There are two important things I would like to bring to your attention regarding our youth at ORUCC: 
Invitation for Gilda's Walk/Run, Sunday October 6:
This is a
fundraising walk (2 mi.) or run (5K) for Gilda’s Club Madison, a nonprofit cancer support community
that provides free emotional support, cancer education, and hope to thousands
of children and adults impacted by any kind of cancer and to those who care for
them. 

Francesca Vash has organized a team in honor of Lauren Ambrun, mother of Nathan. We are hoping to practice “church outside of the walls” this Sunday and walk/run together! If you are able to attend, please register by September 30. Julie Mazer will also hold a virtual run another day if you aren't able to make it on the 6th. 
Registration details:

Team Page: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/gildasrunwalk2024/team/968737/
Team Name: Team Lauren!
Team Captain: Francesca Vash
If you’d like more details about the event, please visit https://secure.qgiv.com/event/gildasrunwalk2024/. You can also feel free to email Francesca at [email protected] if you have any questions.


Youth Service Trip Feedback & Planning
I need your help as we look forward to planning next year's service trip. We are having some big conversations about the financial sustainability of this trip, and I need your input! Please review this summary of 2024's financial outcome if you are interested. I am asking all parents of youth who have attended the trip (or might have their student attend next year) to fill out this survey to help me plan. 
Thank you, all! 
Grace and peace,
Kate

—

Rev. Kate Mackey
(she/her/hers)
Associate Pastor for Children, Youth, and Families
Orchard Ridge UCC
1501 Gilbert Rd.
Madison, WI 53711
Office: (608) 271-7212 ex. 2030
“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to one another.” -Mother Teresa 

*Please note: Outside of Sunday and evenings by appointment, my primary working hours are Monday-Thursday from 8:00 am-2:00 pm. I take Friday and Saturday as sabbath days and may not respond quickly to my email during those times.