Children's Involvement
Supporting friendships, faith, and learning within the St. Tikhon’s Seminary community.
Children in the Seminary Community
Children and families are an active part of the St. Tikhon’s Seminary community, with many opportunities for children to learn about their faith, build friendships, and participate in activities throughout the year. Regular activities include Church School, Children’s Choir, children's fitness, and participation in the liturgical life of the Church. Special events provide additional opportunities for children and families to spend time together and build lasting friendships, including the Fall Children’s Festival, St. Nicholas Day, plays, picnics, sporting events, and other gatherings.
Faith & Learning
Church School at St. Tikhon’s
Church School provides children in the St. Tikhon’s community with regular opportunities to learn about the Orthodox faith alongside their peers. Offered throughout the academic year for children from age four through high school, classes are organized by age group and taught by seminarians as part of their service to the community.
Seminarians develop lessons rooted in Orthodox teaching and appropriate to the learning abilities of their students, with opportunities for children to learn, ask questions, and engage with their faith in an age-appropriate setting. Special activities include Ask the Bishop Night, when children have the opportunity to bring their own questions and speak directly with the bishop. In addition to supporting the spiritual education of the community’s children, Church School gives seminarians valuable experience teaching and working with children as they prepare for future service to the Church.
Music & Community
Children’s Choirs at St. Tikhon’s
The children’s choirs at St. Tikhon’s Seminary are offered through the Monastery Music Program and meet weekly in the Music Center on the Monastery side of campus. Choirs are divided by age group to provide instruction appropriate to each stage of development. Something remarkable happens when children are given the opportunity to pursue beauty by a shared truth together, especially in a setting (campus) that is so beautiful itself.
In addition to performance opportunities throughout the year (including liturgies and end-of-semester presentations) the choirs foster community through a shared pursuit of excellence. Singing together encourages friendship, discipline, and a deeper appreciation for the Creator. The repertoire currently includes a blend of liturgical, classical, and folk music. Students receive instruction in basic music theory and vocal technique, both of which support healthy and confident singing, but class time also grants focus to reflection on the “why” behind our creative endeavors: “He who sings prays twice” —Saint Augustine. Children of all musical backgrounds and experience levels are welcome to participate in one of the two choir levels offered through the school.
Throughout The Year
Other Activities for Children & Families
Special events and community gatherings throughout the year give children opportunities to celebrate, have fun, and build faith and friendships. Read below to learn more about just a few of the many activities and events planned for children throughout the year.
Yearly Fall Festival
A special fall gathering for children featuring costumes, arts and crafts, hayrides, dancing, and other activities enjoyed with friends and families in the Seminary community.
Yearly St. Nicholas Day Party
Students and families celebrate St. Nicholas Day with singing, games, cookie decorating, and a special visit from St. Nicholas (Archbishop Michael), who brings presents for the children.
Yearly Pascha Egg Hunt & Picnic
Children and families celebrate the Paschal season together with an egg hunt followed by a community picnic and time together outdoors.
Yearly Children's Field Day
A day of outdoor games and activities gives children of different ages a chance to have fun, spend time together, and enjoy some friendly competition.
Informal Chess Tournaments
Held once each semester, this informal tournament welcomes children and adults of all ages, abilities, and experience levels for friendly competition and fellowship.
Family & Community Events
Monthly Pizza with the Archbishop, picnics, group sporting events, seasonal parties, and other gatherings give children opportunities to spend time together and build friendships.
Photo Gallery
A Look at Children’s Activities
Explore photos from some of the activities, celebrations, and special events enjoyed by children throughout the year.
Questions?
Children's Involvement FAQs
Explore common questions about activities, resources, and everyday life for children and families at St. Tikhon’s.
Yes. Some traditions return each year, while other activities develop according to the interests and initiative of seminary staff, families, and other volunteers. As a result, each academic year may bring additional events and opportunities for children.