Serving Our Community
At St. Simon's Knanaya Church Birmingham, we believe that every member has gifts to share and a role to play in our community. Our ministries are designed to nurture faith, build relationships, and serve those in need.
Explore our ministry groups below and discover where you can connect, grow, and serve.
Ministry Groups
Children's Catechism & Sunday School
+About This Ministry
Our children's ministry provides age-appropriate Christian education for children from preschool through primary school age. We teach Bible stories, Christian values, and introduce children to the Knanaya Christian tradition in ways they can understand and embrace.
Ages: 3-11 years
Meeting Time: During Sunday service (10:30 AM)
What We Do
- Bible story lessons and activities
- Christian songs and prayers
- Seasonal crafts and projects
- Introduction to Knanaya traditions and festivals
- Safe, nurturing environment with DBS-checked volunteers
Contact: Sunday School teachers or church council
Youth Fellowship
+About This Ministry
Our youth ministry creates a space for teenagers and young adults to explore faith, build friendships, and develop leadership skills. We address relevant issues from a Christian perspective while honoring our Knanaya heritage.
Ages: 12-25 years
Meeting Time: Monthly (usually Saturday afternoons)
What We Do
- Bible study and discussions on faith and life
- Social events and outings
- Service projects and volunteer opportunities
- Leadership development
- Annual youth retreats and conferences
Contact: Youth coordinator through church email
Family Ministry
+About This Ministry
We support families in nurturing Christian faith at home and building strong, God-centered relationships. This ministry recognizes the family as the primary place where faith is formed and lived out.
For: Married couples, parents, and families of all stages
Meeting Time: Quarterly gatherings and special events
What We Do
- Marriage enrichment workshops
- Parenting resources from a Christian perspective
- Family retreats and outings
- Support for families facing challenges
- Celebration of family milestones within church community
Contact: Family ministry lead through church email
Elderly Support & Fellowship
+About This Ministry
We honor and support our senior members, recognizing their wisdom and contribution to our community. This ministry provides fellowship, practical support, and ensures our elderly members remain connected and valued.
For: Senior members (65+) and those with mobility challenges
Meeting Time: Monthly gatherings and regular check-ins
What We Do
- Monthly fellowship lunches
- Home visits and telephone check-ins
- Transportation assistance for church services
- Prayer support and communion visits
- Intergenerational activities with youth and children
Contact: Elderly care coordinator through church email
Choir & Liturgical Music
+About This Ministry
Our choir enhances worship through music, leading the congregation in hymns and special liturgical music. We preserve traditional Knanaya Christian music while incorporating contemporary worship elements.
For: Anyone with a heart for worship through music
Meeting Time: Weekly rehearsals (Saturday mornings)
What We Do
- Lead congregational singing during services
- Prepare special music for festivals and feasts
- Learn traditional Syrian Christian hymns
- Develop musical skills and vocal technique
- Participate in church concerts and cultural events
Contact: Choir director after Sunday service
Liturgical Ministries
+About This Ministry
These ministries support the practical aspects of our worship services, ensuring that liturgy is conducted with dignity and reverence. Volunteers serve in various roles that enhance our communal worship experience.
For: Committed members seeking to serve in worship
Training: Provided for all roles
Ministry Roles
- Altar Servers: Assist clergy during services
- Readers: Read Scripture passages during worship
- Ushers: Welcome worshippers, distribute materials
- Sacristans: Prepare worship space and vessels
- Intercessors: Lead congregational prayers
Contact: Liturgy coordinator through church council
Join a Ministry
Interested in joining one of our ministry groups? We'd love to have you!
Each ministry welcomes new participants. You don't need special skills or extensive knowledge—just a willing heart to serve and grow.
Ministry Schedule
| Ministry | Day/Time | Frequency | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday School | Sunday, 10:30 AM | Weekly | Church classrooms |
| Youth Fellowship | 2nd Saturday, 2:00 PM | Monthly | Church hall or as announced |
| Choir Practice | Saturday, 10:00 AM | Weekly | Church sanctuary |
| Elderly Fellowship | 3rd Tuesday, 1:00 PM | Monthly | Church hall |
| Family Ministry Events | As announced | Quarterly | Various locations |
| Liturgical Ministry Training | As needed | Periodically | Church sanctuary |
Note: Schedule may vary during holiday seasons. Please check with ministry leaders or the church bulletin for current information.