Faith Formation for children, youth, and families is incorporated into our Grace community life through inclusive practices, specific programming, welcoming and engaging spaces, celebrating milestones, regular communication, and connecting socially and informally as we support one another in our faith journeys.
To learn more about our Sunday morning programming for Children, Youth & Families, visit our Grace Time page.
KIDS IN WORSHIP
Presence & Leadership | Sanctuary
Grace embraces congregants of all ages in worship. Pew cards offer caregivers and congregants supportive ways we can embrace children in worship. Children and youth are encouraged to participate in worship leadership opportunities (serve communion, collect offering, read Scripture and prayers, run livestream, etc.).
Wiggle Space | Located in the Foyer
There is a staffed wiggle space, equipped with age-appropriate activities and livestream worship, for children (infants – PreK) who desire more space to move about. Caregivers are welcome to drop-off or stay. Pick-up children before communion.
Kids’ Corner | Located in the Narthex/Entry Space
Children of all ages are invited to explore the Kids’ Corner on their way into worship. Resourced with books, art supplies, and fidgets, these items are meant to support children’s natural need for play and movement, as they engage in worship. Additional education and leadership opportunities are available to help children and youth engage in worship in meaningful ways.
NURSING AT GRACE
Parents are welcome to nurse their children wherever they feel comfortable. For those seeking privacy, there is a room adjacent to the early childhood room, which provides a quiet space with soft lighting and a comfortable chair. Turn the sign to read “Room in Use.”
JOURNEY OF FAITH: Spiritual Milestones for Children & Youth
Faith is a life-long journey with many celebrations, ebbs and flows, and surprises along the way. At Grace we honor our children and youth’s journey of faith with the following milestone gifts in addition to educational opportunities.
- Birth: Frolic First Bible, Is That Poop on My Arm? Parenting While Christian by Pastor Justin Lind-Ayres, optional meal train and care visit from our staff
- Baptism: Children of God Storybook Bible by Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Ordinary Blessings for Parents by Meta Herrick Carlson (Alternative gifts: Faithful Families: Creating Sacred Moments at Home by Traci Smith, age-appropriate Bibles, other devotional resources)
- 3 Years Old: Spark Storybook Bible
- Grade 2: Spark Bible (NRSV)
- Confirmation: Confirmation cross and Lutheran Study Bible NRSV
- High School Graduation: Handmade quilt, functional toolkit, and a book of blessings and advice offered by the Grace community
CHILDREN & YOUTH EVENTS
Throughout the year, children and youth are invited to participate in several social activities, service projects, holiday celebrations, and fundraisers. Look to the monthly newsletter, weekly emails, and worship bulletins for more information.
SUMMER MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES
Join us in the summer for the Grace Congregational Picnic, story theatre, Green Lake Lutheran Ministries camps, and a youth and family retreat to Holden Village in Washington.
COMMUNICATIONS
For more information about ministry offerings for children, youth, and families, contact Kiera Stegall, Director of Faith Formation, at cyf@graceattheu.org. To sign up for the weekly CYF email, contact Jill Abenth at info@graceattheu.org.
