History/Governance
Advent Child Development Center opened its doors in the fall of 1998. Advent Child Development Center (hereafter referred to as CDC) is a ministry of Advent Lutheran Church of Harford County which is a member of the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Advent Church saw the CDC as an opportunity to serve Forest Hill and the surrounding communities and has remained the leader in quality child care in this part of the county.
At the inception of Advent CDC, Diane Angone became its first and only director. Working with parent volunteers and elected members of Advent Lutheran Church who serve as the CDC’s board of directors, Ms. Angone has built up a stellar reputation for Advent CDC. By word of mouth, Advent CDC grew to near capacity within a few years of opening. She has consistently maintained an experienced qualified staff of care givers. The longevity of service to the Advent CDC by its personnel is second to none.
The Spiritual aspect of the CDC program is age appropriate and Bible based first and foremost. Love for Jesus and one another is the focus and hallmark of the teaching and discipline at Advent CDC. Biblical principles such as sharing, forgiveness, kindness, patience and respect are emphasized as apposed to theological doctrines.
Since the CDC is seen as a service to the community, Advent Lutheran Church wants to partner with parents in giving children the best possible start to life. The congregation stands ready to serve in any way it can with no strings attached or hidden agenda. There is no pressure to join the Lutheran Church but if a family does not have a church home, they are welcome to consider Advent as a possibility. The church does not micro-manage the CDC program. Day to day operation of the CDC is left to Ms. Angone and her staff. The CDC board of directors is there for establishing policies and to assist the director when needed.