Education at Oakhurst is an intensive and inclusive effort to enhance
the biblical understandings and demands of discipleship of all members, from birth through
the oldest seniors.
Church School meets on Sundays from 9:30 a.m. through 10:45 a.m. and is age graded :
Adult II, primarily older adults, includes the Love Class
using the Smith and Helwys Formations curriculum for Bible study.
- Adult I, adults of all ages, includes
The All Right Class for developmentally-challenged adults and friends;
Our Faith, Our Children's Faith Class
of parents and others interested in
discussing how to lead children in faith and to support one another in nurturing children;
Patchwork Class alternates between Bible study and topical studies seeking to
do serious study within a caring community;
The Bible Study Class digs into the scripture exploring a topic and it's
implications for today. There is most always a
lively discussion.
Bible for Beginners, a new church school class this year, aimed
at those who don't know much about the Bible and those who wish they knew
more. Features a book by book study of the scriptures and an exploration of ways
to study the biblical text.
The Young Adult Class for 20-something adults and college and graduate school
students, and a Bible study class using American Baptist curriculum.
Youth Church School : middle school and high school groups meet for
Bible Study, discussion and activities. The focus is on learning about the Bible and
Christian faith in creative, interactive ways that challenge and encourage youth in
Christian discipleship, commitment to faith in Christ, and involvement in the Oakhurst
church community.
Elementary Church School is provided in classes seeking to develop
children's knowledge of Bible stories and their understanding of Christian faith. They are
encouraged to learn about the Bible, prayer and participation in worship and the church
community, and to further their love of God, the church, and God's world. The classes are
First Graders and Second Graders, Third, Fourth and Fifth Graders.
Preschool: Loving care and directed activities are provided for
Babies, Toddlers and Two's and a grouping of Three, Four and Fives . The aim of education
at these ages is to help children develop a sense of love for and trust in God and the
church.
Extended Session
Extended Session, is supervised play provided by
volunteers on a monthly rotation for babies through Kindergartners during worship.
Wednesday Evenings
Wednesday evening prayer meetings often feature a
program which may focus on Bible study, mission education, Baptist history or beliefs, or
a topical discussion. Depending on the focus, these programs may be planned by the the
education committee, the ministry staff, a mission group, or the music ministry.
The Puppet Program, a mission group for youth, and Children's
Choirs rehearse from 6:30 - 7:30.
Special Events and Groups
From time to time throughout the year, Oakhurst Baptist Church sponsors
special events that bring Christian Education to the church or neighborhood.
Retreats focusing on special issues or groups, such as
prayer retreats or youth retreats are offered periodically. Each August, Oakhurst
has an All-Church Retreat in the mountains. This is an intergenerational
event emphasizing worship, creativity, fellowship, fun and recreation.
Summer Programs for Children and Youth: A variety of
activities are offered during the summer months, including recreation, Vacation Bible
School, mission activities, youth camp and children's camp.