Children & Families
Children are an important part of Riviera United Methodist Church. Here at Riviera, we are committed to showing each child how much God loves them. We are devoted to nurturing vital faith and fostering the spiritual lives of children and families. We offer a variety of programs each week and throughout the year providing opportunity for worship, spiritual formation and lots of fun! For more information about our ministries with children and families, please contact Dena Abramson Babb at dena@rivieraumc.com.
Sunday Mornings at Riviera
Children are ALWAYS welcome to worship with their families at RUMC. Worshipping with all ages is one of the most important things we do to grow in faith. But we know sitting still can sometimes make a body feel wiggly (adults and children can both feel this way!) So to help some of our younger friends feel more comfortable sitting through a worship service, we have a “Grace Space” in the sanctuary.
Families are invited to sit toward the front of the Sanctuary, on the choir side, so children will have easy access to the Grace Space. We invite children (and parents!) to sit on or near the Grace Space rug and use the books, puzzles, toys & chalkboards during the worship service.
For those who may not want to sit toward the front of the church, the Family Worship Center can be found on the way into the Sanctuary - Children’s worship bulletins, crayons, and pencils can be picked up from the table as you enter the sanctuary.
Kids Worship
Our children join the “grown-ups’ for the first ten minutes or so of worship, stay for a Moment of Wonder message and then head off with their staff and volunteers for a time time of hands on worship and learning. Through music, crafts, and fun activities, children put the weekly themes into action and learn to apply their young faith to their everyday lives. With trained and respected teachers, a warm and welcoming environment, and structured lessons, children learn about God’s love for them.
Nursery Care
We have an excellent nursery for infants through toddlers. The nursery is staffed by a loving and experienced childcare provider and several volunteers throughout the Sunday morning hours.
Family Events
We believe in Faith, Family, Friends and Fun! Several times a year we gather for family fun and faith building. Family ministry events include Hallowe’en fun, Advent Festival, Family-Style Mardi Gras celebration, and so much more!
Safe Gatherings
The United Methodist Church’s Safe Gatherings policies ensure that every church is a safe place where children, youth and elders may experience the abiding love of God and fellowship within the community of faith.
Our church staff and persons working with our children and youth have completed a comprehensive background check and training to ensure that our campus and programs are safe for children. Children are our top priority and we make every effort to ensure their physical, emotional and spiritual safety while they are in our care.