The half-day “Protection of Children” workshop satisfies the diocesan training requirements for clergy, vestry members, staff and volunteers who work with youth or children. To become a diocesan-approved Child Protection Trainer, the person must be endorsed by his/her rector and register to attend the upcoming Train the Trainer Workshop.

Enjoy photos from the glorious Baptism service at Ascension in Kearnseyville, VA on Sunday, Sept. 27.

Church of the Epiphany made sure to bring extra joy with their “Back to School” night in the church parking lot. Enjoy photos of socially-distanced games and fun!

In these confusing and uncertain times, it is more important than ever that we be pointing our kids and their families to the truth of God’s love, provision, and faithfulness.

For the month of August, I issued a fun Bible Challenge to our Sunday School group: Read one chapter from the book of Matthew each day, and win a gift certificate to Sweet Frog!

This summer, Immanuel Kids has been offering Driveway Devotions. Driveway devotions is a time where children’s ministry staff and volunteers come to each family’s driveway, yard, sidewalk or front of their home for a time of devotion, discussion, activities and prayer!

COVID-19 came through our lives like a freight train and derailed countless plans, routines, and expectations. We realized that now more than ever the kids in our community need the hope, reassurance, and abundance of God's love through the unique ministry of Virtual VBS (VVBS).

Each week participants will have a scripture prompt that points to something wonder-worthy in creation—like the wind, or Zacchaeus' sycamore tree.

From July 6-10, we engaged 50-60 children on line each day for about an hour of Bible teaching, worship, skits, Bible memory and sharing.

The Diocese would like to share what you are doing this summer in terms of outreach, evangelism, community service, and fellowship. In addition to continuing to share with the Diocese invitations to events open to other churches and the community, please send us your stories and photos throughout summer 2020.

Your honest input on the following brief survey will provide helpful information which will direct the DOMA Child Protection Committee in its future work. Be safe and thank you for giving this your attention in these challenging days.

This precious video from the Children’s Ministry at All Saints’ in Woodbridge, VA helps normalize the wearing of masks while providing a solid teaching about creation and helpful explanation to children about “God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.” Enjoy!

"We hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God!" Acts 2:11

“When schools are shut down, many children, who experience abuse and neglect at home, lose their only safe place, a place where caring adults can see, hear about, and report signs of maltreatment to authorities who can help these children achieve the safety, permanency, and well-being they need and deserve.”

It can be hard just to get up in the morning, to face another day of feeling overwhelmed, unproductive and out of sorts. How will I get through unplanned homeschool lessons I don’t understand, keep toddlers entertained inside, handle the emotional swings of a teenager, and be nice to my husband? When will I get some alone time? Ever?

Through generous donations, Immanuel is able to continue to feed families in need weekend meals.

Due to the continued presence of COVID-19 and the uncertainty of the next few months, our Board of Directors has decided that we will not be able to go to Watermarks Camp for Camp Booyah 2020. We are so sad that we will not be together in one location this summer for Camp Booyah, but we are excited that we will be together virtually!!! That’s right!!! We will all be able to gather together for….

As individual Christians, churches and as a Diocese, let’s continue to think of creative ways of being a visible presence in our communities.