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!
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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. 

Teaming Up on the 2023 Youth Service Trip

Youth Newsletter on June 20, 2024

By Bajinnem R. Cranol

Last summer ORUCC’s youth went on a trip to Duluth, MN. We spent a week doing service work helping at a number of different locations including a farm, a Boys and Girls Club, and a state park. While doing this we were separated into three separate teams. Each of these groups would work together while at sites during the day. We also worked together in other situations, such as preparing meals. These groups helped us stay organized and effective, but they also helped in other ways too. We worked together, but we also laughed together and played together all the while.

A youth leader was assigned to each team, an older kid who had already been on many service trips. The team leads were in charge of directing and managing their peers. At sites they would help make sure everyone was being productive, and afterward they would guide group discussions and bonding. Despite their increased responsibility, the leaders still talked and joked with everyone else, and it never felt like they were trying to boss anyone around. Adult chaperones were assigned to each group as well, but they mostly let the kids lead themselves. 

When at the sites I always felt like I had agency to work in the way that was best for me, though the team leads and chaperones were always there to make sure that it didn’t get too chaotic. For example, one day we were working at a state park making a new trail. My group was laying mulch down, but there wasn’t really enough work for all of us at once. I decided to grab fallen branches and sticks to line the sides of the path with in order to create clear edges and make it look nicer. I wasn’t reprimanded for doing the “wrong thing”, but quite the opposite; others took note and even started helping. Our team lead supported me, too, as they did to other creative ideas countless times.

Another reason that the teams were so useful for the trip is how we were split up. Instead of being divided by existing friend groups or age ranges, we were mixed together. We all got to know people that we didn’t before, and even form new friendships. Some people who would hardly ever talk to each other in their day-to-day lives could connect on this trip. Not only in the teams, but during free time too, there was a palpable sense of community. There are many people that I got to know better on the trip. I didn’t just talk and play with the people I already knew, I made new friendships. By the end of the trip our group even had in-jokes and references that no one else would ever understand1.

The mission trip was a great experience in every way. From bus rides to manual labor to conversation with friends, there was so much to enjoy. The teams were a very important part of those things too. The bonding, the new friends, the sharing of work, everything about it made the experience that much better. I can’t wait until the next service trip, and I hope they have teams then too. 

1CLEAN THAT POT! CLEAN THAT POT!

ORUCC Youth 5/26

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 23, 2024

Hello friends! 

On this Memorial Day weekend, we will not have 9:00 a.m. Sunday School. However, TRU Function will still practice at their regular time, 10:00-12:00. 
Some upcoming dates:
  • May 27: 6:30-8:00 p.m. Mandatory Service Trip Meeting for Youth & Chaperones
  • June 2: End of Programming Year celebration, TRU Function in worship! Sundae Sunday to follow. 
  • June 16: Freecycle Event at church! Jill Westberg and the Care of Creation Team wonder if any youth could help with this event. Freecycle invites folks to bring gently used items to church to be exchanged (anything leftover will be donated). They are looking for volunteers to set up and pack up items. If you would like to help out to volunteer with this event, please contact Jill: [email protected]

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: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 

5/26 – No Children’s Programming

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 22, 2024

No Children's Programming this Sunday. 


Jade will be available to assist families with young children in The Crossroads for Supported Childcare at 8:30 am. 

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth 5/19

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 17, 2024

Hello friends,

This Sunday is Confirmation Sunday! Due to this special day, we will not have youth Sunday school at 9:00 a.m. TRU Function will practice from 8:30-9:45 to accommodate youth being in service for confirmation. All confirmation youth and parents, please arrive at 9:45 to run through the logistics of the confirmation liturgy. 
We will celebrate after service with cake in Friendship Hall!
A few dates to keep in mind going forward:
  • BRAT FEST is next weekend. Please sign up to work a shift to support our Youth Service trip! 
  • No Sunday school 5/26. 
  •  Monday, May 27 we will have a mandatory Service Trip meeting at ORUCC, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
  • June 2nd is the end-of-school year celebration! In lieu of regular Sunday school, youth are invited to come at 9:00 a.m. to help set up for Sundae Sunday and our Children and Youth ministry celebration in worship.
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: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 

5/19 Sunday School

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 15, 2024

This week…


8:30 Supported Childcare: Jade will be available to assist families with young children in The Crossroads. 

All children (PreK-5) will gather at 9 am in the Ruby Bridges Room for a special Pentecost lesson with Joanna, Diane, and Julie. Following the story, the children will have opportunities to engage in sand play, collage, and watercolor painting. We'll end with a Pentecost Guided Meditation. 

After Sunday School, we'll support our Confirmed Youth in worship. Children will stay in service with you to witness this honored tradition. 

Caregivers, have you filled out our Children and Youth Programming Review?
Upcoming: 
No Sunday School 5/26.
June 2: Rachel and Julie will offer a preview of Kids in the Garden at 9 am. During worship at 10 am, we'll celebrate our programming year and recognize our graduates. Ice Cream Sundaes to follow the service!


—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth 5/12

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 9, 2024

Hello friends, 

This Sunday we will have Youth Sunday School in the Dorothy Day Room at 9:00 a.m. Susan and Pastor Kate will help shepherd the youth through another Echo of the Psalms. TRU Function will practice from 10:00-Noon. Our final confirmation session will take place 3:30-5:30! 
Looking ahead:
May 19 Confirmation Sunday, Worship 10:00 a.m. (No Sunday School)
     Confirmation youth/families: Please plan to arrive around 9:45 a.m. to touch base before the service! 
May 26 Memorial Day weekend–No Sunday School
     May 24-26: Service Trip folks: Please sign up for a Brat Fest volunteer shift if you haven't already! 
May 27 Mandatory Meeting for Service Trip, 6:30-8:00 p.m. at ORUCC
June 2 Children and Youth Ministry Celebration: TRU Function in worship, Sundae Sunday!
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: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 

5/12 Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 8, 2024

This week, Music Connections gets a double whammy! 

All children (PreK-5) will gather at 9 am in the William Johnson Room for music. After the singing, Music Connections 2-6 graders will shift to the Anne Frank Room to rehearse our special meditative music for the 10 am worship service. Younger children and those not interested in participating in the music (or observing the music), are invited to stay with Jill and Josie to hear a story about when the Disciples saw Jesus by the Sea of Galilee after his resurrection. 

After sharing our special music during worship, we’ll shift downstairs for our FINAL Music Connections gathering of the programming year! By special request, we will have a Dance and Donut party to celebrate a wonderful year of music together. George G. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer. 


Julie Mazer (she/her)
Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children’s Education Coordinator
Children’s Music Director

5/12 Sunday School

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 8, 2024

This week…


8:30 Supported Childcare: Marcia will be available to assist families with young children in The Crossroads. 

All children (PreK-5) will gather at 9 am in the William Johnson Room for music. After the singing, Music Connections 2-6 graders will shift to the Anne Frank Room to rehearse our special meditative music for the 10 am worship service. Younger children and those not interested in participating in the music (or observing the music), are invited to stay with Jill and Josie to hear a story about when the Disciples saw Jesus by the Sea of Galilee after his resurrection. 
Looking Ahead: 
May 19: Confirmation Sunday
June 2: End of Programming Year Celebration
This Sunday, this Music Connections kiddos are going to share special music during worship. In coordination, all PreK-5th grade students will be invited to join me for singing until 9:15. At that time, Music Connections kids will shift to the Frank Room to rehearse. So, you might have a few stragglers stay for the story if they are not interested in participating/observing with us. 



Julie Mazer (she/her)
Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children’s Education Coordinator
Children’s Music Director

ORUCC Youth 5/5

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 2, 2024

Hello friends,

Happy May! We are rapidly approaching the end of the school year and racing towards summer. Believe it or not, we only have three sessions of Sunday school remaining before the end of the year. 
This Sunday, Susan and Kristin will lead our youth through another session of Echo with the Psalms at 9:00 a.m. TRU Function practices 10:00-noon. It is Work & Worship Sunday: please consider staying after worship to help work on the building and grounds! Confirmation will meet downstairs 3:30-5:30 p.m., with Pastor Julia joining us.  
Mark your calendars!
  • May 19: Confirmation Sunday (no Sunday school)
  • May 26: Memorial Day weekend (no Sunday school)
  • May 27: Service Trip Meeting, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
  • June 2: Sundae Sunday: End-of-year celebration and Senior recognition in worship, TRU Function leads worship.
Service Trip Updates: 
Please sign up for a shift at Brat Fest (May 24-26)! This is an important fundraiser to help us get over the finish line on fundraising. There are many different kinds of jobs available; set-up for the event begins as early as two weeks from now. 
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: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 

5/5 Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 2, 2024

This week the children will begin the 10 o'clock hour downstairs in the Dietrich Bonhoeffer Room. We've made great progress in our guided meditation project and will use the entire time before communion to review our music. Bethany S. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer. 


Would you believe that there are ONLY THREE remaining Music Connections of this programming year?! I am in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer on May 12. Can you assist? https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0944A5AB2B0-20231#/


Julie Mazer (she/her)
Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children’s Education Coordinator
Children’s Music Director

Sunday School 5/5

Orchard Ridge UCC on May 1, 2024

This week…

8:30 Supported Childcare: Jade will be available to assist families with young children in The Crossroads. 

All children (PreK-5) will gather at 9 am in the William Johnson Room for music. After the singing, we will tour the gardens outside with Jill to learn more about the ORUCC Veggie Village and Rain Garden. We might even have a chance to get our hands dirty; aka, come in your grubbies for Work and Worship Day! 
May 3: Family Game Night
May 5: Work and Worship
May 19: Confirmation Sunday
June 2: End of Programming Year Celebration



Julie Mazer (she/her)
Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children’s Education Coordinator
Children’s Music Director

ORUCC Youth April 28

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 25, 2024

Hello friends! Here are the updates for Youth at ORUCC this week, April 28:

TRU Function plays during worship this week! Other youth are invited to participate in an all-ages Children/Youth Labyrinth Walk in the Education Wing, starting at 9:00 a.m. 
Confirmation will meet from 3:30-5:30. Pastor Ken is joining us this week to share about ORUCC history, and what it means to be a member of the congregation.
Awaken Dane for Parents: I strongly encourage you to attend our 9:00 session in Friendship Hall. We are considering an invitation for this next year to be part of an exciting program called Awaken Dane. This would be an opportunity for our congregation to be in collaboration with diverse congregations in our area, and to focus more deeply on what it means to know and serve our neighborhood. We want as many different perspectives on this decision as possible!
Youth Internship Opportunity: Neighboring congregation Good Shepherd Lutheran Church has an opportunity for older youth and young adults to have a summer internship working with their “Holy Cow” pay-what-you-can food truck! This is an opportunity especially for anyone who might be interested in learning about running a business and working in underserved communities. Please see the attached flyer for more info. 
Looking forward to our time together this weekend!
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: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 
doc icon Holy-COW-Intern-Application-2024.docx

4/28 Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 25, 2024

This week the children will begin the 10 o'clock hour in the sanctuary with you. When they are dismissed for Music Connections, we will move to the downstairs Bonhoeffer Room for movement and movement. We'll revisit our guided meditation project and continue to work on the accompanying music.  Al B. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer. 


Would you believe that there are ONLY THREE remaining Music Connections of this programming year?! I am in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer on May 12. Can you assist? https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0944A5AB2B0-20231#/

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

4/28 Sunday School

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 24, 2024

This week…

8:30 Supported Childcare: Jade will be available to assist families with young children in The Crossroads. 

All children and youth (PreK-HS) will gather at 9 am in the Bridges Room to center ourselves, review labyrinth expectations, and hear about “The Walk to Emmaus.” While walking the labyrinth in the Johnson Room, the children will be encouraged to wonder what it would be like for Jesus to walk alongside them. Reflection stations will be offered in both the Bridges Room and the Frank Room.
May 3: Family Game Night
May 5: Work and Worship
May 12: 9 AM, Invitation for Parents to chat with Pastor Kate and Julie M. about children's programming. More details to come!
May 19: Confirmation Sunday
June 2: End of Programming Year Celebration

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth 4/21

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 18, 2024

Hello friends,

It finally feels like spring, doesn't it? Even with the rain these past few days, I have been so grateful for the abundance of flowers blooming all around us. I hope to see some of you this weekend! For youth:

Sunday school at 9:00 a.m., Kristin and Susan will continue to lead through an “Echo” experience of the Psalms. TRU Function will practice from 10-Noon. 
Confirmation will meet at the church from 3:30-5:30. Confirmation youth: don't forget to work on your worship notes, a spiritual interview, and check out the devotional opportunity as well! 
Service Trip folks: early next week I will be sending out a personal reminder for each family that still needs to make their final payments toward the Service trip. Please also make sure to sign up for Bratfest volunteering under our organization (Orchard Ridge UCC). If you want to invite a friend or two to join you, the more the merrier! We get $10/hour per person, so it all helps!
Coming Up:
Sunday, April 28: 9:00 a.m. Labyrinth Walk
Friday, May 3: 6:00 p.m. Family Game Night
Monday, May 27: 6:30-8:00 p.m. Service Trip Meeting 
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: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 

4/21 Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 18, 2024

This week the children will begin the 10 o'clock hour in the sanctuary with you. When they are dismissed for Music Connections, we will move to the downstairs Bonhoeffer Room for movement and movement. We'll revisit our guided meditation project and continue to work on the accompanying music.  George G. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer. 


Would you believe that there are ONLY THREE remaining Music Connections of this programming year?! I am in need of a Safe Sanctuary volunteer on April 28, and May 12. Can you assist? https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0944A5AB2B0-20231#/

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

4/21 Sunday School and Story Walk Invitation

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 17, 2024

8:30 Nursery Care: Jade and Marcia are ready to play with your little one in the nursery. 

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1st grade children are invited to sing with Julie in the Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. After the music, we'll move to the sanctuary to meet with the bell choir. During worship, the children will be invited to creatively move with the first song that the will bells play. No dance or choreography experience is needed. Just a positive attitude!

Save some time before or after church to experience a “Story Walk” (Weather Permitting). On the south side of the parking lot, you'll find the book, “Butterfly Child,” by Marc Majewski. Walk along and read this lovely book that, “delivers a gorgeously painted, tender story about a young child who loves dressing up as a butterfly. A joyful celebration of creativity, self-expression, and family. A young child loves the spots and patterns found on butterflies, and fashions bold orange wings to become a butterfly child. But when other kids shun the child for the clothes they don’t understand, it takes a father’s encouragement for the kid to stay true to what they love and find joy in the butterfly wings once more.” This book will complement the butterfly coloring experience that Pastor Kate set up in Friendship Hall for Eastertide. 
Looking ahead: 
April 29: Children's Labyrinth Walk 9 am, Education Wing
May 3: Family Game Night
May 5: Work and Worship

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth Updates: Sunday 4/14 + Service Trip + Confirmation!

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 11, 2024

Hello friends, I opted to send one LONG email with lots of updates instead of multiples this week. There are many exciting things happening for our Youth! 

Please look through to the end so that you don't miss any information relevant to you regarding this Sunday's programming, Confirmation, and Service Trip updates. 

Events Sunday, April 14:
  • No 9:00 a.m. Sunday school programming due to the All-Church Retreat at Daycholah. TRU Function will still practice 10:00-12:00.
  • Older youth participating in the “Amazing Grace (Race)” with First Cong. Church will leave church by 12:45. You should have received an email from Julie Mazer with more details regarding this event if you are participating. 
  • Confirmation class will still be held 3:30-5:30 p.m. 
Service Trip Updates:
  • Please make your final payment toward the service trip either by check or on the website  by 4/15. As a reminder, the initial deposit was $250, and the second payment is also $250, for a total of $500 per youth. If you are not sure how much you have already paid, please contact Julie Wombacher in the office: [email protected]. 
  • Please sign up for the Bratfest fundraiser if you have not done so already! Each youth is expected to contribute 8 hours at Bratfest (either individually, or can be split up between people to equal eight hours). If you are unable to participate, please contribute an additional $80 toward the cost of the trip. 
  • UPDATE: We will have some additional youth and one chaperone joining us from Middleton Community Church (UCC)! Stay tuned for more details about our upcoming collaboration.
  • Save the Date! We will have an important meeting for all youth and chaperones on Memorial day, Monday May 27 from 6:30-8:00. This is a time to go over details of the trip and get to know one another better! 
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: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 

No Sunday School/Music Connections 4/14

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 10, 2024

Good Morning, 
This is a friendly reminder that there is no regularly scheduled Children's Programming (including Nursery/Supported Childcare) this Sunday due to the All Church Retreat. Below is the line-up of upcoming events. 
Looking ahead: 
April 21: Children are invited to participate in worship in a creative movement alongside the Bell Choir. More details to come next week! 
April 29: Children's Labyrinth Walk 9 am

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth April 7: All Youth & Confirmation Programming

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 4, 2024

Hello friends!
After a couple weeks of spring break, we are set to be back in action this Sunday, April 7. I hope you all had time for rest and renewal over break.

Today is the last day to sign up for the All-Church Retreat at Daycholah Center next weekend, April 12-14! There are scholarships available if that would be helpful for your family.

9:00 a.m. Susan and Kristin will be with our youth for Sunday school, looking at “echoes” of the creation story in the Psalms. TRU Function practices from 10:00-12:00. 
Confirmation students will return at 3:30 for Confirmation class! Please bring your journal and any completed “invitations” you might have done over the past few weeks. I am attaching a Worship note form in case anyone needs it again and would like to do one this Sunday 🙂
For youth attending the service trip: your final payment is due April 15. Please drop off a check or visit our website to make a payment. 
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: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 
doc icon Confirmation-Worship-Notes.docx

4/7 Sunday School and Story Walk Invitation

Orchard Ridge UCC on April 3, 2024

8:30 Supported Childcare: Jade will be available to assist families with young children in The Crossroads.  

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1st grade children are invited to sing with Julie in the Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Jill and Josie will guide the children in the Easter story, “Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene.”

The 2-5 grade classroom will revisit the symbols and lessons from their Lenten lessons and add the symbol of light.  This week, the children will learn about how Jesus' light continues to shine in each of us after his resurrection. Stations will include several art opportunities. We'll close in a quiet meditation. Joanna and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning in the Bridges Room. 
Save some time before or after church to experience a “Story Walk” (Weather Permitting). On the south side of the parking lot, you'll find the book, “Butterfly Child,” by Marc Majewski. Walk along and read this lovely book that, “delivers a gorgeously painted, tender story about a young child who loves dressing up as a butterfly. A joyful celebration of creativity, self-expression, and family. A young child loves the spots and patterns found on butterflies, and fashions bold orange wings to become a butterfly child. But when other kids shun the child for the clothes they don’t understand, it takes a father’s encouragement for the kid to stay true to what they love and find joy in the butterfly wings once more.” This book will complement the butterfly coloring experience that Pastor Kate set up in Friendship Hall for Eastertide. 
Looking ahead: 
April 5: Family Game Night
April 12-14: All Church Retreat, No children's programming. 
April 21: Children are invited to participate in worship in a creative movement alongside the Bell Choir. More details to come! 
April 29: Children's Labyrinth Walk 9 am

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth Easter Sunday 3/31

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 29, 2024

Hello friends,

A quick reminder that we will not have regular Sunday school on Easter Sunday. Instead, you are invited to join in the festivities! 
6:30 a.m. Sunrise Service, followed by Brunch
10:00 a.m. Easter Worship service, followed by Easter Egg Hunt
If your family would like to attend the ORUCC all-church retreat at Daycholah Center April 12-14, there's still time to sign up! Deadline for registration is April 4. Please register here. If a scholarship would be helpful for your family, please let me know. Hope to see you there!
Regular Sunday school at 9:00, and Confirmation at 3:30, will resume on 4/7.
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: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 

ORUCC Youth 3/24

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 21, 2024

Hello friends,

This coming Sunday is the start of Holy Week as we celebrate Palm Sunday. There will be no regular youth programming at 9:00 a.m. TRU Function is playing in worship with practice starting at 8:30 a.m. There will be an intergenerational coloring opportunity in Friendship Hall beginning at 9:00 a.m. with Holy Week activities available. The entire congregation will meet to process with palms into the worship hall a few minutes before 10:00 a.m.
During Holy Week, some of you may have signed up for Maundy Thursday dinner groups 3/28. At 7:00 p.m. on 3/29, all are welcome to attend the Good Friday Tenebrae service. Our confirmation group is exploring Holy Week with a self-study, which I have attached to this email in case anyone else would like to participate as well. 
On Easter Sunday 3/31, there are several opportunities:
  • 6:30 a.m. Sunrise Service
  • Brunch (immediately following sunrise service)
  • 10:00 a.m. Easter Worship
  • Kids' Easter Egg Hunt (immediately following worship service)
*I need some help setting up the Easter egg hunt! Any youth who are available, please let me know!*

For those who are heading out for Spring Break next week, safe travels! 
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: I take Fridays and Saturdays as sabbath days and may not respond immediately to my email during those times. 
pdf icon Holy-Week-Reflection.pdf

No Sunday School/Music Connections 3/24 and 3/31

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 20, 2024

Good Morning, 
This is a friendly reminder that there is no regularly scheduled Children's Programming this week and next. Below is the line-up of upcoming events. 
March 24: Palm Sunday (no regular Sunday school; no Music Connections). There will be coloring materials at 9 am Friendship Hall for all ages. 
March 28: Maundy Thursday Dinners (sign up here)
March 29 Good Friday Tenebrae 7:00 p.m.
March 31 Easter: (no regular Sunday school; no Music Connections)
     6:30 a.m. Sunrise service, followed by brunch
     10:00 a.m. Easter Worship, followed by egg hunt
April 7: Sunday School and Music Connections Resume

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Children's Education Coordinator
Children's Music Director