PEACE in Sunday School

Last week in Sunday School, we continued our theme of PEACE in Samuel 25:1-35. We learned about a wise, courageous, peacemaking woman named Abigail. When her husband, Nabal, picks a fight with David, she intervenes. Her quick actions promote peace between the two men, stopping the argument from escalating into something worse. Sometimes our outside perspective is what someone needs to see a peaceful solution. Look for opportunities to be a peacemaker. Help find peaceful solutions to the arguments you see around you.

Wisdom OWLS

As we focus on the topic of WISDOM this August, First Pres Kids made an owl craft to remind them to trust God for true wisdom.

Sunday School News!

First Pres Kids learned about the importance of praying to God before taking initiative. They learned about and decorated their own copy of The Lord’s Prayer.

Sundae Social

On Sunday, September 16th, First Pres Kids froze summer memories and welcomed in the new school year by creating their own ice cream sundaes. What a treat!

Origami Fun

This summer, First Pres Kids learned how to make some basic Origami animals. Thank you, Kira Wallisch, for sharing an important message on confidence and a fun lesson on Origami!

Walk with Jesus

After learning about the miracle of Jesus walking on water, First Pres Kids made special paintings to remind them to stay focused on Jesus.

A Sweet Treat

On this beautiful summer day, First Pres Kids walked over to the Peace & Love Garden to pick ripe raspberries. Not only did they get to reap the benefits of their hard work, but they also got another glimpse into the beauty and miracles of God through nature.

Pops for Pop

In honor of Father’s Day, First Pres Kids gave out lollipops to all the men and boys during the 10:00 a.m. service.

Happy Father’s Day!

Watercolor Paintings with a Bible Message

This June, while learning about the importance of having confidence in God, First Pres Kids created beautiful watercolor paintings that revealed an important Bible verse – “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Phil 4:12

Patience Jars

To go along with our April theme of patience, First Pres Kids made patience jars in Sunday School. They learned that shaking these jars and thinking about God’s truth while the glitter settles can help them take a moment to slow down and practice patience when they feel rushed or impatient.

Our Gift of Advent Boxes

First Pres Kids wrapped up November’s Sunday School theme of COOPERATION by cooperating on a special Advent project. The children colored various Advent coloring sheets to be used as decorative coverings for Our Gifts of Advent boxes – a unique way to experience Advent. These boxes, available to all during the season of Advent,  will come with a calendar with specific and non-specific item and act suggestions. The boxes will be collected around Christmas Eve and the items will be distributed through organizations such as the Rutherford Food Pantry.

God made you special!

This March, First Pres Kids explored individuality through homemade modeling dough. When given the same basic ingredients and asked to mold the same object, each child produced something unique and special using their own individual fingerprints.

God looks at the heart

First Pres Kids got creative again in Sunday School! While exploring individuality in constructing edible houses, they learned that true value is on the inside. Just as the icing was most important to keeping the house together, who we are on the inside is what really matters.

Always have HOPE!

First Pres Kids closed on their Sunday School theme of HOPE with a special craft to remind them to always look on the bright side. They also learned that it’s ok to have questions and doubts. They experimented with a simple doubt of the ability to stand on eggs without breaking them and learned that even an adult can do it successfully.

LOADING PLAYER…

Our Memory Verse for this Month

Happy Valentine’s Day!

This February, First Pres Kids are learning about KINDNESS and Jesus’s golden rule to treat others the way we want to be treated. They put a lot of love into these special Valentine’s gifts for their family!

Souper Bowl of Caring

This February First Pres Kids put kindness into action by joining in on Souper Bowl of Caring, a national movement of young people fighting hunger and poverty. Souper bowl of Caring was created in 1990 when a group of young people, inspired by a Super Bowl Sunday prayer, wanted to do something more than celebrate a football game. Following worship service, First Pres Kids held soup bowls at the church doors to collect donations. Thank you to all who supported the youth of our church in this effort to “love our neighbors”!

FOCUS - ASK - SAY - TAKE

This week in Sunday School, First Pres Kids learned that they can practice commitment through prayer. They learned that talking to God is an important way to grow their faith and that they can pray anytime, anywhere because God is always listening.

First Pres Kids baking Christmas cookies

This December, as we celebrate Christmas and learn about God’s greatest gift – Jesus, Sunday School has been focusing on the importance of generosity and the many ways one can give. First Pres Kids had a blast practicing generosity in the kitchen! We baked Christmas cookies for fellowship after worship service. Look at the creativity and love that went into these cookies!

Preparing the Gifts of Christmas

On Sunday, November 26th, First Pres Kids got into the Christmas spirit! While the Sanctuary and Chapel were being decorated, the children painted Christmas tree ornaments. Thank you, Ava Tryanowski, for sharing your musical talent and playing Christmas music on the piano.

Happy Thanksgiving!

This November, First Pres Kids learned about gratitude. They created beautiful decorations for the Church’s Thanksgiving Dinner for the needy to make it an extra special day of thankfulness for those who attend.

Thanking our veterans

As we learn about gratitude this November, First Pres Kids created handmade Thanksgiving cards for our veterans.  The mission committee will be delivering them to the Veteran’s of Chestnut Hill Rehab in Passaic, NJ. Thank you, veterans, for all you’ve done and continue to do for our country!

Money Jars

On Sunday, October 23rd, First Pres Kids painted and decorated their own money jars as we continued our theme of STEWARDSHIP and focused in on the importance of using our money wisely.

Harvest Fellowship

First Pres Kids put stewardship to practice by spending their Sunday School time in the kitchen baking apple and pumpkin pies for a special harvest fellowship following worship service on Sunday, October 8th. A big thanks to Lena Merrill for making this opportunity possible!  

Friendship Jello Challenge

First Pres Kids ended the September theme of FRIENDSHIP with a jello throwing challenge. We are all winners when we fill each other’s buckets and one of the best ways to do that is by reminding each other of God’s great love!

Sundae Social

Here’s the scoop…on Sunday, Sept. 17th, First Pres Kids welcomed in the new school year by creating their own ice cream sundaes.

Learning about forgiveness

First Pres Kids making edible pencils in Sunday School this September as we learn about forgiving friends – erasing their mistakes as Jesus has done for us.

Helping Hurricane Harvey Victims

This September, First Pres Kids were part of an awesome mission opportunity. The children helped to assemble cleaning kits to send to those affected by the devastation of Hurricane Harvey. Great job helping those in need, First Pres Kids!




Rockin’ Kindness

This August, First Pres Kids painted and decorated rocks with inspirational messages to take part in the Rockin’ Kindness Project, a movement started in South Bergen by ERA Justin Realty owner Jennifer Darby with the intention to inspire others by creating a moment of kindness though random inspirational rocks. To learn more about the movement, check out www.rockinkindness.com.  

Learning about Uniqueness!

This July, First Pres Kids are learning about UNIQUENESS in Sunday School. A big thank you to Robert Goetzl for supporting our theme with an awesome children's message!

First Pres Kids getting Creative!

Wrapping up our June theme of CREATIVITY, First Pres Kids painted their own canvas masterpieces during SundaySchool. We even experimented with using some of God’s creations (apples, celery, Brussel sprouts) as tools to paint with!

Bees & Tees!

During the annual Bee Blessing and Honey Harvest on June 8th, First Pres Kids learned about bees while having the hands-on opportunity to help harvest the honey.  The children also took part in a tie-dye activity, creating their own unique t-shirts to take home.

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Happy Father's Day!

In honor of Father's Day, First Pres Kids gave out lollipops to all the men and boys during the 10:00 a.m. service.


Focusing on this month's theme, determination, 

First Pres Kids learned that God provides them with all the armor they need to face life’s challenges.

Shave and a Haircut

This May, First Pres Kids partnered up with the Mission committee and collected cash donations for haircuts and shaves for local veterans. Thanks to all those who supported this great cause with their generous donations!

Shave & Haircut for Veterans on Memorial Day

The Mission Committee asked for your support with our “shave and haircut” project and your response was generous and sincerely appreciated. Many organizations provide meals and clothing, but often personal appearance becomes a vital part of one’s outlook on life. We wanted to aid veterans with having the means to accomplish that goal. With the assistance of an active American Legion in Kearny who see veterans on a daily basis, this collection provided haircuts and other hygiene items to help the veterans returning to civilian life, seeking employment, aging veterans on fixed incomes, and those who find themselves homeless.


We want to thank the Sunday school children for their beautiful cards and thoughtful messages to our veterans for Memorial Day. Eight delightful girls with wonderful smiles and lots of enthusiasm from our Sunday school helped collect your gifts at the doors with patriotic red, white and blue baskets. We thank them for their participation in honoring our veterans.

Memorial Day Cards for Veterans

Last week First Pres Kids made Memorial Day cards for the Veterans of Chestnut Hill Rehab, individuals who put in lots of hard work and determination for our country! The Mission Committee will be delivering them soon. Great job, First Pres Kids! They came out beautiful! Check out the pic.

Happy Mother's Day

In honor of Mother’s Day, First Pres Kids gave out flowers to all the women and girls during the 10:00 a.m. Sunday service.

Happy Easter!

This Easter Sunday, First Pres Kids celebrated the resurrection of Jesus and new life for all. The children enjoyed a Sunday School craft and our annual outdoor Easter egg hunt. It was a beautiful Spring day full of smiling faces!

Nursery Care Survey

We are attempting to assess how we are meeting family’s needs regarding our care and support on Sunday mornings.  Specifically, we are taking time to evaluate how we provide infant/toddler care for children and the impact our care arrangements have upon both children and their families.  If you could please respond to this email by Sunday, March 4, as it will aid us in our decision making.

Valentine's Day Cards for Veterans

First Pres Kids created Valentine’s cards this February for the Veterans of Chestnut Hill Rehab.

Lots of love was put into those cards! Great job teaming up with the mission committee!

Easter Egg Dye & Decorate

On Saturday, April 8th, First Pres Kids celebrated Easter with the much-loved tradition of egg dying.

It was an enjoyable evening for all!

Happy Valentine’s Day!

This February, First Pres Kids got together to celebrate LOVE with a fun evening of Valentine’s treats, crafts, and play.

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First Pres Families - your input is needed

We are attempting to assess how we are meeting family’s needs regarding our care and support on Sunday mornings. Specifically, we are taking time to evaluate how we provide infant/toddler care for children and the impact our care arrangements have upon both children and their families. If you could please respond to this email by Sunday, March 4, as it will aid us in our decision making.

First Pres Kids Veterans Day cards

First Pres Kids have once again teamed up with the Mission Committee creating these beautiful Veterans Day / Thanksgiving themed cards. The cards will be delivered to our Veterans at Chestnut Hill Rehab on November 29, 2016. 

These Kids Can Cook!

Thank you Miss Lena & First Pres Kids for a great Autumn Fellowship Time. How cool to be able to explore our gifts from God in Sunday School... while cooking in our industrial kitchen! These kids are creative and know how to have fun.

Crazy Fun with Bread... This is Sunday School???

Our First Sunday School in November (topic: Service!) was loads of fun as we broke out the really stale bread and let the kids go wild (what kid isn't totally into bread wars?!). Yup, we were feeding the birds on the church lawn (service to nature!) in the most creative of ways, What a fun start to the month of giving! Don't miss out on learning about God's truths and having a great time while we do that - Sunday School is during the 10am Service after the "time with children."  See you there!

Other Recent Past Events - Take a Look!

  • Kids in action with Mission

    First Pres Kids worked alongside the Mission Committee this November to provide packages of care for Family Promise in Hackensack. The Mission Committee was able to deliver 150 gallon-size packs filled with daily care items/granola bar/bandaids, hand lotion/toothpaste/toothbrush/deodorant etc. to Family Promise. Great job team!

  • holiday decorate & celebrate - kids & christmas movies!

    To kick off the 2015 Season of Gifts, a wonderful group of all ages (approx 50 people from the church & community) gathered to decorate our historic building and enjoy each other's company. We watched classic Christmas movies and many new friendships began - a great night! The tree looks great kids - good job!

Hey Kids, great job giving to and serving others!

  • Sing and create!

    Thanks to the kids of First Presbyterian for a dynamic month of singing. Your Friendly Beasts performance was a highlight to many during the December 13 service and afternoon Christmas Concert. Great job! Special thanks to our adult helpers and Clem Moorman on piano!


    Also - thanks Deb for helping us make great manger scene ornaments. Our parents loved them!


  • mission committee and kids team up!


    The Mission Committee sponsored the Ward Party for veterans in November. First Pres Kids contributed by writing letters and notes for the veterans. Way to serve and show God's love!



  • kids serving through the gift of art

    During the November Sunday School sessions, our kids have been making decorations for the Thanksgiving Dinner event. We are proud to see the fine example of our youth in the giving to others.

  • first sunday of advent, kids in the service

    Thanks First Pres Kids for helping Pastor Pete set up the Manger Scene during the 10am Service!

  • missions committee & first pres kids give to veterans!

    Read all about our latest service project here....

$1 Pizza Night

On Friday, September 23, 2016, First Pres Kids got together for a fun evening of pizza and circus/carnival themed games and activities. The children also enjoyed making their own snow cones and popcorn!

Courage in the Kitchen!

On Sunday, October 16, 2016, First Pres Kids stepped out of the classroom and into the kitchen to bake apple pies for fellowship hour. The children not only practiced service, but also courage, being called to do something that may have been out of their comfort zone. They had a great time and the pies came out delicious! A special thanks to Lena for providing us with this awesome opportunity!


First Pres Kids Halloween Costume Party

On Saturday, October 29, 2016, children came together in costume for a Halloween bash. It was a spooktacular evening of Halloween music, games, crafts, tattoos, and treats!

Preparing the Gifts of Christmas

On Saturday, November 26, 2016,First Pres Kids celebrated the start of Christmas season. The children watched “Arthur Christmas”, painted Christmas ornaments, and helped to decorate the church. Christmas spirit filled the air!

Happy Thanksgiving from First Pres Kids!

This November First Pres Kids showed thankfulness and honor by creating decorations during

Sunday School for the Thanksgiving Dinner event. What a beautiful job they did!


Children's Christmas Eve Service

A great experience had by all at FPC as we shared and told the Christmas story with the primary storytellers being the young people. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me….”. We sought to be true to that call. We wish you a Merry Christmas!

Thank you for helping us raise $317 for our local food pantry!

On Sunday, February 5th 2017, First Pres Kids joined churches across the country for Souper Bowl of Caring, a national movement of young people fighting hunger and poverty. Souper Bowl of Caring was created in 1990 when a group of young people, inspired by a Super Bowl Sunday prayer, wanted to do something more than celebrate a football game. As always, thank you for your support of those in need by joining us in this effort to “love our neighbors”.