Glen Ridge Congregational Church 

Sunday School and Childcare

Children begin Church School first by attending worship with their family. Church School runs concurrently with the Worship Service and children are taken to class by their teachers after the children’s sermon or message. Families may pick up their children in their classroom at the end of worship and are welcome to attend Fellowship immediately after. Childcare for children under 3 is provided beginning at 9:45 am in Room 6 in the upper level of the Education Wing.

Confirmation (8th Grade)

The Rite of Confirmation plays a significant role in faith formation. At GRCC, 8th grade students are invited to explore the many aspects of faith:  beliefs, theology, UCC ideology, service, mission, Bible study, and the fellowship that evolves in Christian community.  Confirmation is a joint program with Union Congregational Church in Upper Montclair.

The ministers and teachers design, teach, and engage Confirmands in learning the history, traditions, and responsibilities of being a Church member. 

The Ministry of Children & Youth assists and supports this most critical step in faith growth.  

Confirmands will participate in learning about other religions, interacting with other church confirmation classes, worship, and outreach/service as they seek a deeper commitment to God and Jesus Christ through the United Church of Christ.

Family Faith and Friends

Family Faith is an intergenerational group geared toward all configurations of families (children, parents,  grandparents, friends).  For over eight years, Family Faith has continued to be a vital force in faith formation at GRCC.  Each meeting focuses on a common theme or mission-based initiative that includes faith study, activities, singing, and sometimes food.  There has been/ is a meeting once a month.  Starting in the fall of 2023, the members embraced a PEACE initiative aspect where those members who can, meet after Worship at 11:15 in an “upper room” for sharing and discussing how individuals can promote “Peace and Justice” through daily living.  Actions are suggested; actions are taken.  Sharing happens.  Our kids, especially, are diligent in extending peace and creating change. Collaboration and community occur; Family Faith collaborates with MESH (Montclair Emergency Services for Hope) to assist the unhoused and food insecure.  We balance learning with activity and fun.  It is part of our community outreach commitment.

Logos used:

One is Earth with “our hands” supporting the Love of Children, Love of Neighbor, and Love of God’s World, our environment.  It is part of the Three Great Loves of the United Church of Christ.

A second symbol is the comma.  The comma is a symbol for the UCC; we believe that “God is Still Speaking.” It is based on Gracie Allen’s quote, “Never place a period where God has placed a comma.”

Family Faith: All are welcome!  Come . . . join us in a faithful journey.

Pilgrim Preschool

Pilgrim Preschool is a non-denominational school for children of all racial, ethnic and religious backgrounds from age 2-1/2 through Pre-Kindergarten.