Welcome! Children are a vital part of our faith community. Our goal is to partner with families to share the love of God with children and nourish life-long relationships with Christ Jesus. Or, as we put it, to help kids grow in faith.


For more information about our Children's Ministries at Gary United Methodist Church in Wheaton, IL, please contact Carey Williams Bebar, Director of Christian Education, at 630-668-3100 x105 or cbebar@garychurch.org.


Another way to stay connected to Gary Kids is by joining the Gary Kids Facebook page. Check out activities, videos and devotions that help faith grow at home.



Gary Kids Registration Form



Sundays


Kids' Church
All preschool 3s through third graders are invited to the Lower Level after the children's time during 9 a.m. worship and after the Scripture reading at 11:11 a.m. worship. Please sign in at our Gary Kids Check-in Station located just outside the Sanctuary.


Helping Hands 

Fourth Sunday during 9 a.m. Kids’ Church
All children ages preschool 3s through grade 5 are invited to the Lower Level to use their “helping hands” to help our local, national and global neighbors.


Sunday School, 10 a.m.
Preschool through grade 3: Lower Level
Grades 4–5: Anderson Room, Main Level




Wednesdays


Wednesday night children’s music

All Gary Kids are invited to grow in faith and serve in love through the music ministry! Cherub Choir, Friendship Choir and Good News Ringers all meet on Wednesdays. See music page for details and register here.

 

Wednesday night child care

Wednesdays, 5:30-7 p.m.

Wednesday night child care is offered for children preschool 3s through fifth grade. This supervised playtime is available for families with children in multiple choirs and/or parents seeking child care during class meetings or small group studies. Contact Pastor Carey for more information.



Gary Kids Calendar 







Events

Parent’s Night Out

Friday, Oct. 10, 6:30–8:30 p.m., Lower Level

Drop off your kiddos at Gary Church and enjoy some well-deserved time away. Each month features a movie, craft and free play for kids ages preschool 3s through fifth grade.

 

In October we’ll enjoy Wreck It Ralph which focuses on self-worth, acceptance and the importance of friendship.

 

Suggested cash donation of $5 per child. Register here.

 

Helping Hands | Red Bird Mission

Sunday, Sept. 28, during 9 a.m. worship, Lower Level

Founded in 1921 in the southeastern corner of Kentucky, Red Bird School provides education to children in one of the most economically-challenged places in the nation. Kids will learn about this important mission, supported by the Northern Illinois Conference, and make crafts that will be sold for a fundraiser.


Third Grade Bible

Sundays through Nov. 16, 10 a.m. during Sunday School, Gamon Hall

The Bible students will have a special group presentation at 9 a.m. worship on Nov. 16.


4th & 5th Grade Fellowship

Kickoff Party

Friday, Sept. 19, 6:30–8:30 p.m., meet at Door 5

Fourth and fifth graders are invited to kick-off a new year with a scavenger hunt through downtown Wheaton and ice cream at Kimmer’s!

 

Abbey Farms Pumpkin Daze

Saturday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m.–12 p.m., meet at Abbey Farms

Let’s step away from modern life and make new memories with church friends! Packed with activities on a 40-acre farm, Pumpkin Daze has everything needed for a day of adventure.

 

RSVP to Pastor Carey Williams Bebar.


“Gather at the Table" 
A Messy Church Special Event on Holy Communion

Sunday, Oct. 5, 10 a.m. Sunday School, Lower Level

Messy Church is a new ministry for Gary Kids families! Enjoyed quarterly, Messy Church Special Events invites kids and parents alike to join in experiencing fun and faith-formative activities. Founded by a United Methodist pastor and used throughout the globe, this engaging curriculum is based on the values of all-ages together, celebration, creativity, hospitality and centering ourselves in Christ Jesus.  


Offered on World Communion Sunday, “Gather at the Table” will help participants learn about Holy Communion with activities that explore the mystery of Christ’s might works of salvation and celebrate the love of Jesus poured out for us all.


Saturday, Oct. 25, 10–12 p.m., Parking Lot

Trunk or Treat offers radical hospitality to our community neighbors and creates lasting memories for all involved. Last year we saw over 1,000 people, which means we need many hands to make this event spook-tacular. Join in the fun by decorating a trunk, being a general volunteer or donating candy. And be sure to invite your kids, grandkids and neighbors to this fun community outreach event! Register to volunteer.


Service opportunity


Acolytes wanted


If you’re a fourth, fifth, sixth or seventh grader, we’d love to have you serve as an acolyte in worship. To learn more about this meaningful position, contact Pastor Daniel Cochran or sign up here.