Director of Christian Education
and Youth Ministries -
Jean Newton

It’s hard not to think of the energizer bunny when you talk with Jean Newton, Director of Christian Education & Youth Ministries.  And when you learn that she is mother to nine children (5 of whom were adopted through the Massachusetts Foster Care Program, and ran a pre-school program and day-care in her home for eighteen years, you begin to sense that this woman not only has high energy, but really loves kids! 

Jean is a lifelong member of the Evangelical Congregational Church and has been involved in many ways over the years; she started the Congo Kids Youth Group, initiated a Thanksgiving/Easter Dinner for a needy family program and a “Valentines for the Elderly” program and is an active participant in the Women's Fellowship.  Jean is also very active in many community programs as well.

Jean says her church has been a “very special” part of her life.  So when an opportunity to get involved in the Christian educational programs came along, she was more than willing.  In the late 90s, she attended a religious education-related workshop (something she does at least once a year) where she learned about a fascinating, multi-intellectual approach to teaching Christian education - and a dream was born.  Jean’s dream was to bring this special methodology to her church.  In 2003, the dream became a reality.

There are multiple classes held on Sundays and at other times as well.  Sunday classes are for children pre-kindergarten through eighth grade.  The Youth Groups [“Congo Kids” (grades 5 & 6), Junior High (7 & 8) and Senior High (9 – 12)] meet at other times as well.  See “Church School” for more detailed information about the wonderful programs established for our youth.

Jean approaches Christian education with enthusiasm, energy, and a determination to include all our young people in a meaningful way.  Jean’s philosophy is that if a child is active in classes and youth groups, s/he will experience first-hand the meaning of belonging – to a church, to a community – to a “family”.  Later in life, that experience will serve him/her well.  When asked what she enjoys the most about her position at the church, Jean responded that for her it is “an opportunity to make a difference”.  And make a difference she does!