Children and youth

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.

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.

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

ORUCC Youth March 17

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 14, 2024

Hello friends,

This Sunday (St. Patrick's Day!) there are many things happening for youth. Sunday school will be at 9:00 a.m., with Susan and Kristin guiding. We will continue “echoing” the story of scripture through an exploration of the Psalms. TRU Function will practice from 10-12.

Following the worship service, Paul Vash is organizing an Easter-egg candy stuffing/pizza party for the youth. The eggs will be used for our Easter egg hunt on 3/31! TF youth who would like to participate are welcome to join in after practice.

Any youth who will be available to help set up and facilitate the easter egg hunt on Easter Sunday, please let me know!

At 1:30, there will be a special “Installation Service” to officially recognize and affirm the start of my ministry at ORUCC with the wider church community. I'm excited! I hope that you all will be able to join in. Josie, Jadyn, and Lily are providing some special music, too.

Reminder, NO confirmation this week (but you have an opportunity to fill out TWO worship notes on the 17th if you are feeling ambitious! ;). We will resume in earnest on April 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.

3/17 Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 14, 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. The children have already started crafting their next project: Guided Meditation and Reflective Music. Two weeks ago, the children composed a beautiful guided meditation. This week, we'll begin to work on the accompanying music. Bethany S. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

No Music Connections 3/24 and 3/31.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

3/17 Sunday School

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 13, 2024

This week…

8:30 Nursery Care: Jade and Marcia will be available for childcare 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, Karen and Josie will guide the children in the Lenten stories, “Too Afraid to Follow Jesus” and “Jesus' Trial.”

The 2-5 grade classroom will continue their study of the season of Lent. This week, the children will learn about Palm Sunday to prepare them for next week. Stations will include sand, several art opportunities, and puzzles. We'll close with a visual meditation by viewing art inspired by Jesus' arrival in Jerusalem. Joanna and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning in the Bridges Room. Be sure to pop by the Bridges Room to share your thoughts on “How We Can Make The World A Better Place.” Please add your ideas to the sign on the door. Everyone in our community is welcome to contribute.

Looking ahead:

March 17: Pastor Kate's Installation 1:30

March 24: Palm Sunday (no regular Sunday school)

March 28: Maundy Thursday Dinners (sign up here)

March 29 Good Friday Tenebrae 7:00 p.m.

March 31 Easter: (no regular Sunday school)

6:30 a.m. Sunrise service, followed by brunch

10:00 a.m. Easter Worship, followed by egg hunt

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth March 10

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 7, 2024

Hello friends,

Don't forget to “spring ahead” with your clocks this weekend!

On Sunday, our youth will meet in the Day room for Breakfast Club with Kate and Kristin. TRU Function practices from 10:00-12:00. Confirmation will meet in the downstairs Brown Room from 3:30-5:30.

Some fun things coming up:

We are looking for youth to help stuff eggs for the Easter egg hunt! This will happen after worship on Sunday 3/17, with pizza lunch provided. Stay for Pastor Kate's installation service at 1:30! Contact Paul Vash ([email protected]) for more info.
Older youth: Would you be willing to help set up and coordinate the egg hunt on Easter Sunday? Talk to Pastor Kate.
Registration has re-opened for our RESCHEDULED All-Church retreat, April 12-14! We are looking forward to enjoying the springtime weather up at Daycholah. If you had signed up in January, and you are still planning to attend, you do not need to re-register. If you couldn't come in January, but you can now, please sign up here!

Mark your calendars:

March 17: After Worship Easter Egg filling and pizza, Pastor Kate's Installation 1:30

March 24: Palm Sunday (no regular Sunday school)

March 28: Maundy Thursday Dinners (sign up here)

March 29 Good Friday Tenebrae 7:00 p.m.

March 31 Easter: (no regular Sunday school)

6:30 a.m. Sunrise service, followed by brunch

10:00 a.m. Easter Worship, followed by egg hunt

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.

3/10 – No Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 7, 2024

There will not be Music Connections this week. All children will stay in worship. Music resumes next Sunday, March 17.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

Sunday School 3/10 – Set Clocks One Hour Ahead for Daylight Savings

Orchard Ridge UCC on March 6, 2024

This week…

8:30 Jade will be available in Crossroads for Supported Childcare.

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1st grade children are invited to join Jill and Josie in the Johnson room for singing followed by the stories, “The Gift of the Poor Widow” and “A Woman Anoints Jesus for Burial.”

The 2-5 grade classroom will continue their study of the season of Lent. This week, the children will learn about the Last Supper and the ritual of Communion. Stations will include sand, several art opportunities, and puzzles. Joanna and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning. Be sure to pop by the Bridges Room to share your thoughts on “How We Can Make The World A Better Place.” Please add your ideas to the sign on the door. Everyone in our community is welcome to contribute.

Looking ahead:

3/17: Pastor Kate's Installation Ceremony

3/24: No Sunday School. Stay tuned for info about an intergenerational coloring opportunity.

3/31: Easter Sunday! No Sunday School.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

3/3 Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 29, 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. The children have already started crafting their next project: Guided Meditation and Reflective Music. We'll see if that idea has stuck and if they are ready to move forward with the creation. Kristin S. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

3/3 Sunday School – Dancing the Labyrinth with Pastor Julia

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 28, 2024

This week…

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one.

Sunday School starts at 9 am. ALL PreK-5th grade children are invited to sing with Julie in Friendship Hall from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Pastor Julia will guide the children in a special “Dancing the Labyrinth” experience.

Be sure to pop by the Bridges Room to share your thoughts on “How We Can Make The World A Better Place.” Please add your ideas to the sign on the door. Everyone in our community is welcome to contribute.

Looking ahead:

3/1: Family Game Night

3/17: Pastor Kate's Installation Ceremony

3/24: No Sunday School. Stay tuned for info about an intergenerational coloring opportunity.

3/31: Easter Sunday! No Sunday School.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth 2/25

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 22, 2024

Hello friends,

This Sunday TRU Function plays in worship at 10:00–this means that they will gather at 8:30 a.m. for rehearsal. Youth who are not part of TRU Function will be invited to “Breakfast Club” with Pastor Kate and Barbara Stretchberry in the Day room at 9:00 a.m.

Looking ahead:

Wed., February 28th, 6:30 p.m.: Meeting for folks interested in talking about service trip fundraising, meeting by zoom. I will send out a direct email early next week with a zoom link to Service Trip families.
Sun., March 3, 3:30 p.m.: Confirmation Class Info meeting for youth 7th-9th and their adults! Held at the church.
Sun., March 10, 3:30-5:30 Confirmation Class, held at church.
Sun., March 17, 1:30 p.m.: Pastor Kate's Installation Service

See you all soon!

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 Music Connections 2/25; Children stay in worship after sharing special music

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 22, 2024

This week the children will begin the 10 o'clock hour in the sanctuary with you. Those who have participated in our song/poetry writing project will share their special music during the worship service. After our music, all the children will stay in worship. This will allow everyone to have the opportunity to watch TruFunction perform!

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

Sunday School/Music Connections Rehearsal 2/25

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 21, 2024

This week…

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one.

Sunday School starts at 9 am. ALL PreK-5th grade children are invited to sing with Julie in the William Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Karen and Josie will guide the PreK-1 children and any others who are not participating in the special music share during worship in a story about The Most Important Commandment.

Those who participated in the song/poetry writing experience in Music Connections will shift to the Frank Room to rehearse their music before a final rehearsal in the sanctuary at 9:30.

Be sure to pop by the Bridges Room to share your thoughts of “How We Can Make The World A Better Place.” Please add your ideas to the sign on the door. Everyone in our community is welcome to contribute.

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

ORUCC Youth 2/18

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 15, 2024

Hello friends,

This Sunday is the first Sunday of the season of Lent, a time when we join Jesus on the journey toward the cross–and ultimately, resurrection!

Our Youth will get a preview of this journey on Sunday at 9:00 a.m. as they continue with Echo the Story, focused on “Death to Life”. Susan and Kristin will be leading this Sunday. TRU Function will practice from 10-12.

I will be away this weekend, celebrating a birthday with my twin brother in Albuquerque. I will look forward to seeing everyone when I'm back the week after.

Looking ahead, please remember:

March 3rd, 3:30 p.m.: Info meeting at ORUCC for any 7th/8th/9th graders and their adults who might be interested in confirmation! Confirmation will begin March 10th.

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.

Music Connections 2/18; Children Share in Worship 2/25

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 15, 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 songwriting. On 1/7, the children organically began the process of writing a song (this was 100% initiated by the children!) We'll revisit that work and continue the process. George G. will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

Save The Date! February 25, the children are invited to share their composition during worship. Those participating need to attend Music Connections at least two out of the three upcoming Sundays: February 4, 11, and 18. Please note your child's availability here: https://forms.gle/qxVmUyz5o2zog7Mo8

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth 2/11 and Service Trip Fundraising

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 9, 2024

Hello friends!

This Sunday, 2/11, we will not have regular Sunday School for youth at 9:00 a.m. CWS is putting on a “Faith in Action Brunch” after worship, and the donation proceeds from this brunch will go toward supporting our Youth Service Trip! (This is in lieu of the originally planned bake sale for this date).

Anyone who is available at 9:00 a.m. to help CWS set up is welcome. After worship at 11:00, youth are strongly encouraged to attend the event and participate in the table conversations. CWS has asked that youth attending the service trip stay after the brunch to help clean up.

TRU Function will still practice from 10:00-12:00. Any TRU Function youth who are also attending the Service trip are asked to stop into the kitchen after practice to pitch in with the cleanup effort.

The following week, we have some fun and meaningful all-church events coming up as we head into the Lenten season:

Tuesday 2/13 Party Gras
Wednesday 2/14 Ash Wednesday Service 6:30-7 p.m. and Labyrinth Walk (open 5:00-8:00 p.m.)

See below the announcement for Party Gras:

Come One, Come All!

Party Gras!

Tuesday, Feb 13

5:30-7:30 pm in Friendship Hall

Laissez les bon temps rouler!!!

Celebrate the beginning of Lent and the Easter Season with pizza (donations welcome!), games, music, and dancing, followed by a brief ceremony to burn the palms from last year's Ash Wednesday service. Wear your Mardi Gras beads and costumes for this festive, family-friendly event! We also will need help with set-up and clean-up for Party Gras (Sign Up Genius Link).

See you all soon!
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.

2/11 Sunday School

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 7, 2024

This week…

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one.

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1 children are invited to sing with Julie in the William Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Jen and Josie will guide the children in a story about one of Jesus' miracles.

The 2-5 grade classroom will begin their study of the season of Lent. This week, the children will prepare for Ash Wednesday by exploring the calendar to discover why Lent begins next week, feeling the ashes from last year's palms, and a brief discussion about entering the season of remembering, reflection, and repentance. Stations will include sand, coloring, journaling, puzzles, and the creation of a lenten intention/promise. At the request of the children, their time together will end with a guided meditation. Joanna and Paul will guide the children in their learning.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth February 4, 2024

Orchard Ridge UCC on February 2, 2024

Hello friends, happy February!

This Sunday our youth will have Echo the Story with Kristen and Susan in the Dorothy Day room at 9:00. TRU Function practices from 10-noon. Our Annual Congregational Meeting will happen this Sunday after worship.

February may be a short month, but there are some fun events coming up:

TONIGHT Friday, February 2: Family Game Night at church, 6-8 p.m.

Sunday, February 11: Faith in Action Brunch, 11:00 a.m. Sponsored by CWS, this intergenerational brunch will be an opportunity to get to know others at ORUCC and explore through guided table discussions how we live out our faith in action. All proceeds from this brunch will benefit the service trip.

Tuesday, February 13: Partygras!

Wednesday, February 14: Ash Wednesday Service and Labyrinth Walk 6:30 p.m.

Confirmation Update:

March 3rd, 3:30-4:30 p.m.,Information Session at the church for those youth in 7th/8th/9th and their adults who might be interested in Confirmation.

Looking forward to seeing you all soon!
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.

Sunday School 2/4

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 31, 2024

This week…

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one.

The 2-5 grade classroom will continue their study about God's Love and Care. The children are currently experiencing lessons designed “to become aware of God's incarnational nature and unconditional love.” (From “The Way of The Child” curriculum). This week, the children will explore the story of The Good Shepherd. Stations will include an opportunity to explore hands-on shepherd props from the Godly Play collection, sand, and an art station to design their own sheep. The lesson will close in a guided meditation. Joanna and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

1/28 Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 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 songwriting. On 1/7, the children organically began the process of writing a song (this was 100% initiated by the children!) We'll revisit that work and continue the process. Deanna Blanchard will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

Sunday School Labyrinth Walk – 1/28

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 24, 2024

This week…

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one.

All children and youth (PreK-HS) will gather at 9 am in the Bridges Room to center ourselves, review labyrinth expectations, and read Psalm 139. The labyrinth walk will take place in the Johnson Room and will be guided by the words in Psalm 139, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Reflection stations (offered in both the Bridges Room and the Frank Room) will include an opportunity to draw a self-portrait, journal, read, and various meditation offerings.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth 1/21

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 18, 2024

Hello friends,

I am looking forward to being back together this Sunday! Our youth will have Sunday school at 9:00, focusing on Echo the Story with Susan and Kristin. TRU Function is practicing from 10-12.

Unfortunately, the meeting to discuss a faith-based GSA at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church this Sunday has been postponed, due to low RSVP's. I will keep you all posted about a reschedule, or next steps.

Looking ahead, next Sunday, 1/28, we will have a labyrinth walk and contemplative stations for all children and youth.

Some more dates to get on your calendars…

Youth Service Trip Updates:

Tuesday, January 30, 5-8: Culver's Night in Verona. Come out to have some comfort food and support our Youth Service Trip!
Sunday, February 11, 11:00: CWS Faith in Action Brunch. This is an intergenerational fellowship opportunity; all proceeds from this brunch will support the Youth Service Trip.

All Church Events:

Saturday, January 27, 9:00-Noon: Indigenous Justice Retreat. A conversation to explore “what's next” following this fall's focus on Indigenous Justice. All voices welcome!
Sunday, January 28, 11:00: All-Church Chili Cook Off
Tuesday, February 13, 5:30-7:30 Party Gras! Including a dance party, pizza dinner, and a ritual of burning last year's palm branches to prepare for Ash Wednesday.
Wednesday, February 14, 6:30 Ash Wednesday Service to begin the Lenten season, 40 days leading up to Easter.

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.

1/21 Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 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 songwriting. On 1/7, the children organically began the process of writing a song (this was 100% initiated by the children!) We'll revisit that work and continue the process. Emily Lloyd will be our Safe Sanctuary volunteer.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

Sunday School 1/21

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 17, 2024

This week…

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one.

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1 children are invited to sing with Julie in the William Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Jill and Josie will guide the children in a story about the Transfiguration of Jesus.

The 2-5 grade classroom will begin a study about God's Love and Care. During the next few weeks, the children will experience lessons designed “to help children become aware of God's incarnational nature and unconditional love.” (From “The Way of The Child” curriculum). This week, the children will consider the idea that we are created in the image of God. Stations will include an opportunity to draw a self-portrait, journal, sand play, and a collaborative art project. Diane and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning.

Looking Ahead….next week all children and youth will walk the labyrinth. More details to come.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth 1/14/24

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 11, 2024

Hello friends,

I write this to you as I recuperate from COVID, unfortunately. We have cancelled the All Church retreat this weekend due to illness (key Daycholah center staff also have Covid!) and the potential for hazardous weather on Friday. We are happy to be able to reschedule the retreat for April 12-14.

However, we had not planned for any Children or Youth programming this Sunday due to the retreat. Instead, all youth are encouraged to attend worship at 10:00 on Sunday.

Some things coming up:

January 21, 12:00-2:00: Interfaith GSA planning/exploring session at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (5701 Raymond Rd). If any youth are interested in being part of planning this, please come along! Lunch will be provided; they would like an RSVP by Jan. 15 so please let me know soon if you want to attend.
January 28: All Church Chili Cook-off! Mark your calendars for this event.
February 11 Faith in Action Brunch: This brunch, held after worship, will be an intergenerational fellowship opportunity centered around conversation about what it means to have “faith in action.” CWS has decided that all proceeds from this brunch will go towards the Youth Service Trip! I will be sending more info directly to Service Trip families about this opportunity.

Stay safe and warm!

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 1/7

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 4, 2024

Happy New Year!

This Sunday our Sunday school programming will start up again, with Echo the Story at 9:00 for youth 6th-12th grade. Susan Watson and Kristin Muckian will be leading this week. TRU Function will practice 10:00-12:00. I will be away this Sunday, attending to the memorial for my niece in Albuquerque, NM.

Looking ahead, Sunday 1/14 is our All Church Retreat at Daycholah Center. I will be offering some youth-specific programming on Saturday morning at the retreat. I'm excited for our time together! We will not have regularly scheduled Sunday school at ORUCC on the 14th, and TRU Function will not have practice. If you would like to sign up for the retreat, there's still time! Please sign up here.

Another exciting development: I have been part of a group discussing the idea of an interfaith GSA (Gender-Sexuality Alliance) group in Madison. Anyone interested is invited to come to a meeting at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church on Sunday, January 21 at 1:00. I will be there–if there are any youth who have interest in sharing their perspectives about what this kind of a group might look like, I'd like to invite you to come along too! Let me know if you'd like to join me there.

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.

Music Connections 1/7

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 4, 2024

NO Music Connections next week (1/14) for the All Church Retreat.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

Sunday School 1/7

Orchard Ridge UCC on January 3, 2024

This week…

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one.

The 2-5 grade classroom will also complete their Advent study. The Magi have now arrived in Bethlehem for Epiphany! The children will hear the story of the Magi and have the opportunity to sniff frankincense and myrrh essential oils. Following the stories, the children will be invited to make a beaded star to symbolize the star the Magi followed. Joanna and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning.

Looking Ahead….NO SUNDAY SCHOOL 1/14 for the All Church Retreat. Sunday School Resumes on 1/21.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth 12/31

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 29, 2023

Happy (almost) New Year!

This Sunday, 12/31, we will continue a “winter break” for Sunday school. All youth are encouraged to attend worship at 10:00, which will include a labyrinth walk in lieu of a traditional sermon. Sunday school will resume on 1/7.

I (Pastor Kate) will be away this Sunday 12/31 for some rest time with my family. I look forward to seeing you all again in 2024!

Coming up… don't forget to register for the All Church retreat at Daycholah center January 12-14! Our theme is “Spiritually Alive: Rooted and Grounded in Love.” Pastor Julia and I are so excited to be leading this restful, fun, and inspiring weekend away. Please sign up here. There are also scholarships available if the cost is a barrier to your family.

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 Sunday 12/17

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 14, 2023

Hello friends,

In this busy season, I want to take a special moment to say THANK YOU to each of you for your care and support for our youth programming. It is such a gift to be part of this congregation and serve as one of your pastors!

There is a lot coming up for our youth! This Sunday we will have “Echo the Story” Sunday school at 9:00 a.m. I will be teaching this week. Our ORUCC Post Office fundraiser will be in its last week (bring your cards to “send”, and come stop by to see if you have cards to pick up!) TRU Function will meet from 10-12 to prepare for Christmas Eve service. Some of our youth have prepared musical selections to play either at 9:50 as a prelude to service, or immediately following the service at 11:00.

If your family picked up a tag for the Christmas Gift Tree, please make sure to do your shopping and bring your wrapped gift, along with the original tag, on Sunday.

More Next Week:
12/19 Culver's Night Service Trip Fundraiser, 4:00-8:00: Youth 16+ can volunteer; youth under 16 who are preparing for the service trip are welcome to come have dinner and participate in one the conversation tables we are hosting! This is an opportunity for folks of the church who come to support the youth at Culver's to have a conversation and dinner with us. If you are planning to be there at any point, let me know!

12/22 Christmas Eve Dress Rehearsal: Children and youth participating in our Children's Christmas Eve service are asked to take part in this rehearsal at 5:30 p.m. You are encouraged to wear festive attire! 🙂

12/24 Christmas Eve: We have three services, as this is a Sunday.

10:00 Carols and Cocoa: Wear your Christmas jammies and enjoy a Christmas Carol-singalong as part of this morning service!
3:00 Children's Service: Our beloved tradition, worship led by children and youth
5:30 Intergenerational Candlelight Service: This year we are collaborating with Madison Mennonite Church for this special service of lessons and carols.

There will be no Sunday School on 12/24 or 12/31.

Looking ahead!

All Church Retreat! Spiritually Alive: Rooted and Grounded in Love

January 12-14 at Daycholah Center. Please find registration here

Confirmation: We hope to begin confirmation in March. If your youth (8th grade plus) is interested in confirmation, please indicate your interest (and any questions you might have) here.

If you made it all the way to the end, way to go! We have a lot happening right now. I hope that in between the busy moments, you find pockets of peace and joy as well.

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.

12/17 Christmas Eve Prep, Special Solos, and Dress Rehearsals

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 14, 2023

Good Morning,

Our big music week is approaching! See below for details.

1) Children participating in the Christmas Eve service will rehearse with me from 10-11 am. 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 make cards for our church elders, draw Christmas scenes for our program, and design Hope letters. Kurt Jaehnig will be our Music Connections volunteer.

2) This Sunday, some children have signed up to play special music for the service. Those in TruFunction will play as the “Prelude” at 9:50 AM. All others will play as the “Postlude.” The postlude will last about 20 minutes. See the list below for who is participating and the order I have suggested. Any playing on Sunday is welcome to warm up in the sanctuary between 8:00-8:30 AM.

Prelude at 9:50 AM:

Zane Yeazel: Solfeggietto

LeRoy Erickson: Jingle Bells

Julianna Olajos: Humoresque

Josie Gasser: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

Postlude after worship:

Ben Lancor: God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

Fiona Schultz: Trepak

Daria Beckett: Skating

Clara Gillisman: Away in a Manger

Neil Gillisman: Good King Wenceslas

Audrey Lloyd: Jolly Old Saint Nicholas

Anneliese Erickson: Somewhere In My Memory

Owen Lloyd: Jingle Bells

Linus Hahn: Gavotte in D Major

Devin Conners: Last Chance Blues

Timmy Hagen: You're a Mean One, Mister Grinch

3) Mandatory Christmas Eve Rehearsal on Friday, December 23 @ 5:30-6:30

*Festive, fun attire is welcomed and encouraged!

4) Christmas Eve Final Run Through on Sunday, December 24 @ 2 pm

5) Christmas Eve Service on Sunday, December 24 @ 3 pm

6) No 10 am Music Connections on 12/24 and 12/31. See you back again on 1/7!

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

12/17 Sunday School

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 13, 2023

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one!

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1 children are invited to sing with Julie in the William Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. We'll rehearse the song “Away in a Manger” for our Christmas Eve service. After the music, Karen and Josie will guide the children in Advent stories about the Prophets, Mary and Joseph, The Shepherds, and The Magi.

The 2-5 grade classroom will also explore the Prophets, Mary and Joseph, The Shepherds, and The Magi. Exploration stations will include writing Christmas cards to church elders, designing HOPE letters for our Christmas Eve service, sewing Christmas stars, nativity dioramas creation, and puzzles. Joanna, Diane, and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning.

*No Sunday School 12/24 and 12/31. We'll resume on 1/7 with a special Epiphany Celebration.

Attached to this email is a fabulous resource for an at-home Advent devotional. With quick and easy prompts, families are invited to find a scripture, reflect, color, and pray.

Upcoming! Save the Date!

January 12-14 All Church Retreat at Daycholah Center: We are excited to continue this wonderful tradition again this year. More details are coming soon about registration for this all-ages event.

I'm looking forward to seeing you on Sunday. Thank you for supporting the youth programming opportunities at ORUCC.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

Illustrated-Ministry-Advent-2023.pdf

ORUCC Youth 12/10

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 9, 2023

Hello friends! This Sunday, 12/10 we are having our big Bake Sale to support the Youth Service Trip! Trip participants are asked to contribute 8 dozen cookies/bars or equivalent. Please bring your contributions to the church kitchen on Sunday morning at 9:00. Youth are expected to help set up for the event at 9:00, and stay after worship to sell cookies and clean up.

We will not have regular Sunday school programming on 12/10, but any youth who are not attending service trip are still welcome to come to help out! The more the merrier… this is my first bake sale, but I have heard that it is a fun event.

Coming Up…

Save the date! January 12-14 All Church Retreat at Daycholah Center: We are excited to continue this wonderful tradition again this year. More details coming soon about registration for this all-ages event.

Have a great weekend, and hope to see many of you on 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.

Christmas Eve Rehearsal 12/10 10-11:15 am

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 7, 2023

Children participating in the Christmas Eve service will rehearse with me 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 HOPE letters, write Christmas cards to our church elders, and draw Christmas scenes for our program. Paul Vash will be our Music Connections volunteer.

After worship, and after our Christmas Eve preparations are complete, any child who wishes to play a special solo on 12/17 should check in with me (unless you have already made other arrangements).

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

12/10 Sunday School, Special Advent Attachment, and Save the Date

Orchard Ridge UCC on December 6, 2023

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Lily are ready to play with your little one!

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1 children are invited to sing with Julie in the William Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. We'll rehearse the song “Away in a Manger” for our Christmas Eve service. After the music, Jill and Josie will guide the children in Advent stories about the Prophets, Mary and Joseph, and the Shepherds.

The 2-5 grade classroom will also explore the Prophets, Mary and Joseph, and the Shepherds. Exploration stations will include writing Christmas cards to church elders, designing HOPE letters for our Christmas Eve service, sewing Christmas stars, nativity dioramas creation, and puzzles. Paul, Diane, and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning.

Attached to this email is a fabulous resource for an at-home Advent devotional. With quick and easy prompts, families are invited to find a scripture, reflect, color, and pray.

Upcoming! Save the Date!

December 10: Bake Sale to Support the 2024 Service Trip.

January 12-14 All Church Retreat at Daycholah Center: We are excited to continue this wonderful tradition again this year. More details coming soon about registration for this all-ages event.

I'm looking forward to seeing you on Sunday. Thank you for your support of the youth programming opportunities at ORUCC.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

Illustrated-Ministry-Advent-2023.pdf

ORUCC Youth 12/3, plus Confirmation and other Events!

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 30, 2023

Hello friends,

This Sunday our youth 6th-High School will have Echo the Story at 9:00 a.m., with Susan Watson leading along with Kristin Muckian and Pastor Kate. TRU Function practices from 10-12.

There will also be Family Game Night at church this Friday night 12/1 at 6:00! Please bring dinner/dish to pass and a game if you'd like.

Here are some other dates and events to mark:

Service Trip fundraisers: December is a busy month!

Each Sunday in December we have our ORUCC Post Office from 9:00-11:00
December 10th is our Cookie and Baked Goods Sale (read the flyer. for more info please)
December 19th Culver's Night-Mineral Pt. Rd (sign up coming soon!)

Save the Date: January 12-14 All Church Retreat at Daycholah Center: We are excited to continue this wonderful tradition again this year with the theme, “Spiritually Alive”. More details are coming soon about registration for this all-ages event.

Confirmation: Please fill out this Google form! For youth in 8th-9th grade, Confirmation will be offered this spring. We are intending to have confirmation held for 8 weeks on Sundays from 4:30-6:30 p.m. The dates will be March 10, 17, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12, with the Confirmation service on May 19th (Pentecost).

Looking forward to seeing you all soon,

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.

Christmas Eve Rehearsal 12/3 10-11 am

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 30, 2023

Children participating in the Christmas Eve service will rehearse with me from 10-11 am. Please note that children will not attend worship. Kate will serve communion to the children downstairs. I have the sneaky suspicion that I 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 HOPE letters, write Christmas cards to our church elders, and draw Christmas scenes for our program. Bethany Schultz will be our Music Connections volunteer.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth 11/19 (and before!)

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 16, 2023

Hello friends!

This Sunday 11/19 we have Sunday School continuing with Echo the Story at 9:00; Kristin Muckian and Susan Watson are on board for guiding this conversation. TRU Function will practice from 10:00-12:00.

TOMORROW! Friday 11/17: 5:30-7:30 “Friendsgiving” Party at St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church– Our youth (6th-high school) are invited to get to know other youth at St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church (6205 University Ave, Madison, WI 53705) at a potluck “Friendsgiving” party. We are looking to do some combined youth programming with St. Dunstan's and other progressive Christian churches in the future; this is one step toward this exciting collaboration!

Mark your calendars for other upcoming events:

January 12-14 All Church Retreat at Daycholah Center: We are excited to continue this wonderful tradition again this year. More details coming soon about registration for this all-ages event.

Confirmation! For youth in 8th-9th grade, Confirmation will be offered this spring. We are intending to have confirmation held for 8 weeks on Sundays from 4:30-6:30 p.m. The dates will be March 10, 17, April 7, 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12, with the Confirmation service on May 19th (Pentecost). Families with youth eligible for confirmation, look for an email from Pastor Kate with more details the week after Thanksgiving.

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.

11/19 Sunday School

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 15, 2023

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one!

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1 children are invited to sing with Julie in the William Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Karen and Josie will guide them in a story about one of the miracles Jesus performed, “Jesus Feeds 5000 People.”

The 2-5 grade classroom will explore the Letters From the Apostles. First, the children will learn more about the words “Apostle” and “Epistle” and search for bible verses. In our stations, the children will have the opportunity to write a letter to someone in our congregation, work with Sand, color, and complete a worksheet about the Fruit of the Spirit. Hal and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning.

Upcoming! Save the Dates!

November 19: Bible Distribution

During worship, ORUCC will strengthen the baptismal commitment to the children in our church community with a Bible Distribution Ceremony. Though it is too late to order additional Bibles, your child is welcome to attend service to watch and support the ritual.

November 23: Thanksgiving Day Berbee Derby

Calling all walkers, run/walkers, and runners! Join us at the 40th Annual Berbee Derby. It's too late to enter for a team shirt, but you can still run, walk, and pose for selfies with the ORUCC bunch! https://www.berbeederby.com/registration/

November 26: Advent Wreath Making

Join us on November 26 at 9 a.m. in Friendship Hall for our third annual intergenerational Advent Wreath Making Event. All supplies will be provided for families to make an Advent Wreath to take home.

I'm looking forward to seeing you on Sunday. Thank you for your support of the youth programming opportunities at ORUCC.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth 11/12

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 9, 2023

Hello friends,

This Sunday, 11/12, at 9:00 our Newsletter group will meet in the Day room, and the Breakfast Club will meet in the Frank room. Susan will send out more details to the Newsletter youth about what to expect for this week; Breakfast Club will be working on preparing a Holiday Gift tree to benefit the Early Childhood Initiative with RISE. This community organization supports children and families in our neighborhood, and we are happy to continue the tradition of helping provide gifts to our community this Christmas season.

Mark your calendars:

November 17: 5:30-7:30 “Friendsgiving” Party at St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church– Our youth (6th-high school) are invited to get to know other youth at St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church (6205 University Ave, Madison, WI 53705) at a potluck “Friendsgiving” party. We are looking to do some combined youth programming with St. Dunstan's and other progressive Christian churches in the future; this is one step toward this exciting collaboration!

November 19: First Service Trip Deadline–If your youth (entering 8th-H.S. graduation) would like to come on the Service Trip to Nashville, TN, please let Pastor Kate know by Nov. 19th. First payment of $250 is due by that date.

Thank you all for your continued support of our Children and Youth at ORUCC!

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.

11/12 Music Connections

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 9, 2023

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

11/12 Sunday School

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 8, 2023

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one!

Sunday School starts at 9 am. PreK-1 children are invited to sing with Julie in the William Johnson room from 9:00-9:15. After the music, Jill and Josie will guide them in a story about one of the miracles Jesus performed, “Jesus Heals Two Daughters.”

The 2-5 grade classroom will explore the Letters From the Apostles. First, the children will experience the Fruits of the Spirit through guided imagery. After the story, the children will have the opportunity to write a letter to someone in our congregation. Diane, Joanna, and Jadyn will guide the children in their learning.

Upcoming! Save the Dates!

November 19: Bible Distribution

November 23: Thanksgiving Day Berbee Derby

November 26: Advent Wreath Making

I'm looking forward to seeing you on Sunday. Thank you for your support of the youth programming opportunities at ORUCC.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

ORUCC Youth 11/5/23

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 3, 2023

Hello friends, happy November! Don't forget to turn your clocks back an hour this weekend!

This Sunday, 11/5, at 9:00 a.m. we have a special opportunity for our children and youth to participate in a labyrinth walk and contemplative practice/prayer stations. This will be a multi-age experience held in several rooms of the education wing. TRU Function will practice from 10:00-12:00.

Looking ahead, we also have some more exciting things on the horizon:

November 3, 6:00-8:00: Family Game Night– bring your dinner and a game for this relaxed hangout time in Friendship Hall with others from ORUCC!

**November 17**: 5:30-7:30 “Friendsgiving” Party at St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church– Our youth (6th-high school) are invited to get to know other youth at St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church (6205 University Ave, Madison, WI 53705) at a potluck “Friendsgiving” party. We are looking to do some combined youth programming with St. Dunstan's and other progressive Christian churches in the future; this is one step toward this exciting collaboration!

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 Music Connections 11/5

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 2, 2023

There will not be Music Connections this week, 11/5. Instead, your child is welcome to stay in the sanctuary with you.

—

Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director

11/5 Children and Youth Labyrinth Walk

Orchard Ridge UCC on November 2, 2023

Nursery Care opens at 8:30. Jade and Marie are ready to play with your little one!

This week, instead of our regular 9 a.m. Sunday school programming, all children and youth are invited to take part in a Labyrinth walk and contemplative spiritual practice stations. Everyone PreK-High School will first gather together in the Bridges Room. After a brief opening conversation, small groups of children and youth will have the opportunity to travel through our small labyrinth in the Johnson Room. Those waiting to walk the labyrinth will be invited to freely explore artistic, tactile, and mindfulness stations.

Upcoming! Save the Dates!

November 19: Bible Distribution

During worship, ORUCC will strengthen the baptismal commitment to the children in our church community with a Bible distribution ceremony. This ritual is for children in grades 2-12 who have NOT received a Bible from ORUCC previously. Please complete THIS FORM if you wish for your child to be a part of this ritual. It is okay to not partake this year if you are unsure. We will have other Bible distribution ceremonies in future years. Please see Pastor Kate or Julie Mazer if you have any questions.

November 23: Thanksgiving Day Berbee Derby

Thank you for your support of the youth programming opportunities at ORUCC.

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Julie Mazer (she/her)

Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ

Children's Education Coordinator

Children's Music Director