In the summer of 2021, New Providence and several other congregations and individuals in the community chose to address the needs of the community in a specific way. After the 2020-2021 school year, when New Providence opened its doors to a community learning pod, it was brought to our attention that there may be some gaps in education for our local children. We also recognized the concern of so many families for childcare in the summer. Out of this need and the success of multiple learning pods in the area, Camp Daniel, a month long summer camp was born.

In 2022 we continued the model and New Providence led the charge in creating the name Camp J.O.Y. for our summer ministry. This too was a month long camp led by several congregations and community members serving Pre-K through 8th graders.

A New Iteration: Seedlings

As New Providence continues to live into its vision of serving the community at large, Camp J.O.Y has evolved into the idea of a comprehensive children’s ministry moving forward called Seedlings. In the fall of 2022 we began hosting several “mini-camps” on days when public schools are closed for holidays. In the summer of 2023 we hosted an evening model for a week of VBS which included dinner, completely FREE of cost for families.

We host Seedlings Storytime the first Saturday of each month September-May at 10:00. Children of all ages are invited to come and listen to stories, participate in fun games and activities and play on our new playground!

Children are welcome to participate in worship at NP. We have worship bags available in the back of the sanctuary. We also hold a Time for Children in worship and a lesson to follow on the third floor where children have a safe space just for them. We also have a fully furnished nursery available.

We plan to have a mini-day camp on MLK Jr. Day when students are out of school as well.

Our goals remain true to the greatest commandment: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength; and love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:37-39).”