Tuesday, 01 December 2009 21:20
We think of our church as a place where people are welcomed into a community that treasures rich and inspiring worship and close and caring relationships. Children and youth are an important part of our congregation’s ministry. For more information about our youth programs please contact Pastor Timm. < This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it >
Ascension’s educational programs and activities for children and youth include:
Sunday School
Children 3 through 13 experience the Word of God through a fun curriculum that incorporates Bible lessons, activities, and music. Several times during the year, children gather together with adults for special intergenerational activities.
Worship
Our pastor leads an interactive children’s sermon at weekly services that connects the Gospel lesson to the kids’ daily lives. Children also regularly participate in worship through song, skits, and special programs. Preteens and teens assist with worship as acolytes, ushers, and assisting ministers. On occasion Ascension teens prepare a Youth Service, leading the congregation in worship with Bible readings, children’s sermon, presentations and contemporary music.
Lions’ Den
Sitting through an entire worship service can be difficult for young children. During the 10 a.m. service, Lions’ Den offers a break with fun activities and crafts for children ages 3 through 7 during the sermon. And for infants and toddlers, Ascension provides a nursery stocked with toys and staffed by caring members.
First Communion and Confirmation
Prior to their first communion, children in the 2nd grade are taught the meaning of the sacrament and encouraged to develop a unique relationship with Jesus Christ.
7th and 8th graders prepare for confirmation and full membership in the church by attending a bimonthly program to study the Bible and church doctrine. This also features a summer trip to Confirmation Camp at Lutherdale Bible Camp in Wisconsin. Confirmation is held on the last Sunday of October after the confirmation classes are completed.
Junior and Senior High Activities
Service projects, ski trips, laser tag, and movie nights are some of the group activities organized for our preteens and teens. Ascension sponsors service and fellowship experiences for our youth with trips to the Appalachia Service Project and our church synod’s National Youth Gathering.
Vacation Bible School
Take a journey back in time and visit a marketplace of the Biblical Times. Experience some of the rituals, goods, stories, and crafts from the time. There are opportunities for all ages to participate. Participants age 4 to entering grade 5 will become members of a tribal family. We are also looking for youth and adult volunteers to help bring the 29 A.D. marketplace to life. Everyone is welcome!
When: Sunday, July 18th-July 22nd from 6:30 - 8:30
Where: Saints Peter and Paul Lutheran Church in Riverside Registration form
Congregational Retreats
Ascension has a tradition of holding annual congregational retreats for children and adults. Retreats are usually held over a weekend at retreat centers, providing for indoor and outdoor activities as well as Christian education and fellowship. Topics vary from “Food in the Bible” to “Christianity Across the World”. The schedule offers adult and children’s activities as well as intergenerational time. Scholarship money is available.
