Spiritual Formation

At Fairmount, spiritual formation is about becoming more fully human by deepening our connection to God, to one another, and to our shared purpose in the world. We believe faith isn’t something you have — it’s something you grow.

From playful storytelling with kids to bold conversations with teens to reflective practices and theological deep-dives with adults, formation at Fairmount invites curiosity, wonder, and real-life engagement. We ask honest questions. We make space for mystery. We explore how scripture, justice, and spiritual practice intersect in our everyday lives.

Whether you’re three or ninety-three, there’s a place for you here — not to be filled with answers, but to be formed by love.

At Fairmount, we believe kids aren’t just the future of the church — they’re the church right now. We welcome their questions, their laughter, their wiggles, and their wonder. Through worship experiences, interactive lessons, and community gatherings, we help children and families explore faith in ways that are playful, honest, and deeply rooted in love. Our goal is not just to teach kids about God, but to help them experience God’s love — together.

Time for Young Disciples

All services include “Time for Young Disciples;” a sweet segment where kids come to the front of the sanctuary and say the darnedest things while a pastor simplifies a theological message for them. Afterwards, kids can either stay in worship or head to a pastor-led fun-filled theological lesson with others in their age group.

WE Time

Worship Enrichment (WE) Time takes place on the 2nd-5th Sundays of the month during the 11:00 a.m. worship service (Sept-May). Children in Pre-K through 3rd grade leave worship after Time for Young Disciples to gather in room 214 to learn more about God, the Bible, church, and each other. Adults pick up their child(ren) from room 214 after the service.

On your child’s first time joining WE Time, we ask that an adult walks with themto room 214 after Time for Young Disciples to greet the leaders and help your child(ren) settle in.

Club 4/5

Club 4/5 is designed for 4th and 5th graders who are beginning the transition from children’s ministry into youth ministry. It blends relationship-building with age-appropriate spiritual formation, helping kids grow in faith and community. Club 4/5 meets on the first and second Sundays of each month (October through May).

On the first Sunday, kids share lunch at church and enjoy a social activity or field trip. On the second Sunday, they leave worship after Time for Young Disciples and head to Room 212 for an interactive lesson with their teachers.

Youth have a unique spirituality all their own, and Fairmount’s program creates a safe and brave space for preteens and teens to question, express, and explore their values — around identity, responsibility, relationships, and where God fits into their lives. They grow together through Sunday gatherings, overnight retreats, and confirmation classes offered two or three times a year.

While some programs are open to all youth, Junior High (grades 6–8) and Senior High (grades 9–12) each have offerings designed to meet them where they are. All students are welcome, regardless of faith background, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or ability. Whether they’re into arts, athletics, or anime, every young person can find belonging here.

We aim to nurture emerging young adults who think critically, live authentically, and discern their spirit-led vocations with care. Our discussions explore racial, economic, gender, and ecological justice through a PC(USA) Christian lens, while using scripture and the teachings of Jesus to shape values like compassion, grace, and justice.

At Fairmount, faith formation doesn’t end after childhood — it deepens. On Sunday mornings in October and November, adults are invited to a weekly 10:00 a.m. formation series, alongside contemplative practices like Taizé, Compline, and various forms of meditation.

Throughout the year, adults can join small groups that meet monthly for shared life and prayer, with new groups typically launching each January. Pastor Ryan also leads a weekly Bible study on Thursdays at 11:00 a.m.

In addition to weekly opportunities, Fairmount hosts retreats throughout the year — including an all-church retreat in the fall and a silent retreat in the spring. The William Birkett Williams Lecture Series brings in thought leaders from diverse disciplines to spark reflection and dialogue.

For more information and event details, check out our online calendar.