Developing the capacity to wonder, listen, and find meaning through stories and symbols.
Our spiritual curriculum is designed to complement, not compete, with a variety of faith backgrounds.
The goal of our spiritual curriculum is to give young children the tools they need to explore the mystery of God’s presence in their lives, just as we seek to give them the tools they need in other areas of life. Spiritual development in early childhood is less about learning facts and information, and more about developing the capacity to wonder, to listen, and to make meaning through stories and symbols. This is the approach taken by FPCA in its children’s church programming, and so we rely on FPCA’s trained and thoughtful pastors and staff to lead this curriculum.
The spiritual enrichment curriculum is for ages three to five and consists of a 20-30 minute service twice a month in the chapel, led by the pastors and staff of FPCA. In the sacred space of the chapel, children are invited into song, story, and simple prayer meditation. Most of the time is spent hearing a scripture story imaginatively told, with questions that invite the children to be curious and wonder.
CCC families come from a variety of faith backgrounds, and so our goal is to complement, not compete with what each child is learning at home and in other settings. We assure you there is no proselytizing or altar calls. We deeply respect the conscience of each child and the faith-choices of each family. While we hope that all students will participate, we know that some parents may wish to opt out. Alternative care is provided for any family who does not wish for their child to attend our spiritual curriculum.
Spiritual Curriculum FAQs
What is included in the spiritual curriculum?
Spiritual wellness is the feeling that life is meaningful and has a purpose by means of ethics, values, and morals that act as a guide. In this curriculum, students will learn important values such as patience, kindness, gentleness, peace, joy, generosity, and love. These values will be explored through stories, songs, and age-appropriate prayer meditation.
How often is this curriculum program?
This is a large-group experience every other week in the First Presbyterian Church chapel and occasionally outside, an aesthetically beautiful space. Connecting with a beautiful space is an important part of spiritual wellness.
Who leads the curriculum?
The CCC staff partners with the pastors and music staff of First Presbyterian Church to lead this curriculum. You can learn more about the church at www.fpcasheville.org.
Is the spiritual curriculum Christian?
While CCC is a nonprofit that is primarily sponsored by First Presbyterian Church, this spiritual curriculum is broadly inclusive. Some of the stories come from the Bible, and the values taught are common to the Christian tradition as well as other faith traditions. We know CCC families come from a variety of faith backgrounds, and our aim is to complement, not compete with, what each child is learning at home.
Can I opt-out my child?
While we hope that every three to five year old will participate, there is an option to opt out of our spiritual curriculum. Please contact administration staff for more information.