Grace Community Church will restart its weekly Awana program for children on September 10, with registration now open, according to pastor Rex Schaffner.
Awana, an international Christian program founded in the 1940s, is offered in tens of thousands of churches worldwide and engages millions of children in faith-based learning and activities. Locally, the Marblehead church hosts the program for elementary-aged children, dividing participants into two groups: “Sparks” for kindergarten through second grade, and “T&T” (Truth and Training) for third through sixth grade.
Schaffner explained that each weekly meeting begins with a joint gathering led by Club Director Rebecca Colona, including songs and a short Bible lesson. Children then rotate through sessions focused on handbooks, Bible memory work, and team-based activities. The evening also features a game time run by volunteers and concludes with songs, awards, and prayer.
The program incorporates themed events, such as “Crazy Hat Night” and “Pajama Night,” to keep children engaged. Awards are given not only for completing handbook work but also for showing good sportsmanship, kindness, and cooperation.
“Awana is designed so that kids can take their handbooks home and work through them with their parents,” Schaffner said. “It encourages families to engage with the lessons together.”
While Grace Community’s program is limited to elementary grades, Awana provides resources for all ages through high school. Families from Marblehead, Swampscott, Beverly, and surrounding towns have participated in the past.
Additional information about the global program can be found at awana.org. Registration details for the Marblehead chapter are available on Grace Community Church’s website.
