Murphy First UMC has a heart for children and families finding their place of belonging in the church, where they can grow in their faith, serve together, and develop Christ-centered relationships as we journey alongside one another.
Nursery for Ages 0-2 and 3-5, 9:45 a.m. -1 2:00 .m.
Our nursery staff and volunteers create a safe and fun environment where children learn the faith through stories, songs, and crafts/activities. Children also get to spend time a good bit of time on the playground. When parents drop off their child(ren) in the nursery, they receive a buzzer that our staff can use to notify you in the event you are needed in the nursery.
Our nursery rooms are on the main floor of our Education/Office building. Building doors are always locked, and a video doorbell lets our nursery staff know when a parent/guardian is at the door.
If you are bringing your child for the first time, you can complete this form ahead of time to let us know parent/guardian contact information and other things would help our staff and volunteers get to know and care for your child.
Worship Readiness
After Children’s Time during the Worship Service, children K-5th are welcome to join volunteers for a children’s worship experience. This is a time and space where children can explore elements of the worship service in a way that meets them where they are and helps them get ready to more meaningfully participate in the main worship service.
Of course, some families prefer their children to stay in the worship service with them. And we think that’s a great idea too! We love children in worship—as worshippers, and as participants in the service. We have “Worship Bags” that include activities that help kids stay involved throughout the service.
We use Godly Play as a curriculum.
Godly Play is a curriculum resource that children enjoy during our Sunday School hour. The Godly Play Foundation strives to make meaning through story, wonder, and play and to nurture spiritual lives by honoring the centrality, competency, and capacity of children.
Wednesdays 3:15 – 4:30, preschool – Grade 5. Children develop musical skills, use rhythm and other instruments,and prepare songs for worship
Family Events
We place a high value on relationships and intergenerational activities at First UMC. Throughout the year we host Family Life events that include children, families, and the whole church. these include Kickball at Konehete Park, Trunk or Treat, Shrove Tuesday (before Lent begins), Kid’s Afterschool Ash Wednesday Service, and quarterly Parents’ Night Out.
Camp Tekoa
Located in Hendersonville, NC, these summer camp sessions for elementary, middle, and high school focus on spiritual growth, relationships, fun, and adventure. Children and youth at our church have opportunities to attend .
All volunteers and leaders of our ministries with children and youth are trained in Safe Sanctuaries policies/procedures, providing physical safety as we nurture spiritual growth.
