• Children are deeply valued and included in the Divine Service.
• Educational opportunities: Sunday School, Vacation Bible School (VBS), Confirmation Classes.
• Other programs and activities: Christmas Program, LYA Trips, Youth Group, and more.

Jesus said, "Let the children come to Me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God" (Mark 10:14).

When St. Lawrence, bishop of Rome, was commanded by Roman soldiers to bring out all the gold and silver treasures owned by the church, he instead presented the soldiers with the "little ones" of the church: the poor, the sick, widows and orphans, the little children. "Here are the treasures of the church," he said. Amen!

We believe that children are the greatest treasures of God's church: "Children are a heritage from the Lord" (Psalm 127:3). We too proclaim the often repeated proverb, "Children are not a distraction from more important work; they are the most important work."

At Gloria Dei, children experience safe, educational, and age-appropriate environments where they learn about Jesus in creative and relevant ways.

Q: Where should my children go during the service?

A: We like to encourage children (including infants and toddlers) to join their caregivers in worship with the adults. Before you enter the sanctuary, we have coloring pages & crayons set up at a table for your youngest to enjoy during the service. 

Q: What if my child has a meltdown during the service?

A: This is a shame-free church that values the sounds of little children in church (yes, even the screaming!), because we know that by coming they're hearing the Word, which is the most important thing.

If you ever need help with your children during the service, please ask congregants for their support. We are blessed with many members willing and able to be a church aunt, uncle, grandpa, and/or grandma for you and your little ones. 

We also have a Family Viewing Room for those who need a quiet place to be with their child while they listen/watch the service.

Q: What learning opportunities are there outside of the Sunday Service for my children?

A: After the service, we invite you and your children to attend our Bible classes. We have three classes divided by age: Pre-K and Young Children Sunday School, Sr. Youth Sunday School, and our Adult Bible Class.

You can approach any of our members to include your children in our classes. You can come unannounced or sign up below with Plan A Visit. You're welcome to join either way.

We also do a yearly Vacation Bible School (VBS) for caregivers and their children, Easter Egg Hunt, Confirmation classes, Youth group, and more events and educational opportunities for children (see below for details).

See our Calendar or our Announcement Banner (top of homepage) for exciting events coming up.

We have a Family Viewing Room that is available for caregivers with infants and small children. This room is reserved exclusively for caregivers with infants and small children to enjoy the service in a more private and quiet environment if they so wish.

Amanda, Melissa, and Anna are our Sunday School teachers. To learn more about them and how they'll help your children grow in Christ, visit our Staff Page.

Join us every August for a fun-filled week of faith, learning, and community at our Vacation Bible School! Every year, we dive deep into the incredible grace and forgiveness God offers through Christ. With classes for ages 3 and up, there's something for everyone—whether you're a child, teen, or adult.

Kids enjoy Bible lessons, lively music, crafts, and games, plus a delicious meal every night. On the final day, our young VBS participants will share songs they've learned in a special program for family and friends. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to grow in faith, make new friends, and build up the body of Christ.

Celebrate the joy of Christ's birth with us at our Children's Christmas Program! This heartwarming event features kids ages 3 to 18, who sing beloved Christmas hymns, perform skits, and share Scripture from the Christmas account. The program takes place during a Sunday Divine Service in Advent and is open to everyone, and it's a wonderful way to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas—God becoming human for all the world.

Adam's Rib (our women's group) adds to the festivities with meals, gifts, and crafts during Saturday practices. Practices take place on two Saturdays leading up to the event, where all the participants get to bond, have fun, and prepare to bring the Christmas story to life. For more information or to sign up your child, contact Melissa Everett.

The Youth Group (6th grade-12th grade) at Gloria Dei is a loving and engaging community where kids can grow in faith, build lasting friendships, and have fun through various activities. They meet monthly for fellowship, service projects, and events that help strengthen their spiritual growth. The kids also hold fundraisers throughout the year to raise money for the yearly LYA trip.

The Lutheran Youth Association (LYA) organizes exciting yearly trips at the end of every July, offering opportunities for adventure, learning, and deepening faith. These trips are a great chance for youth to bond with peers from other congregations, explore new places, and grow spiritually through group discussions and activities. To participate, youth must be in high school or going into 9th grade.

If you have further questions concerning our children's ministry or Sunday School program or about visiting Gloria Dei Lutheran Church with children, simply click the button below and get in touch with us.

We cannot wait to meet you!