Education Time
Sunday morning education time starts at 10:00 am
"Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it." And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them. Mark 10
Our Education Groups
Infants-Toddlers (0-3 Years)
Children are allowed to be children. It is as simple as that. Family Worship offers a “child friendly” experience of the word of God and the joy of God’s blessings. We encourage laughter, tears, shouts, play and curiosity from kids of all ages. It is a gift to be part of the ministry of the kids among us.
Sunday School (Preschool-Grade 6)
Our Program runs from September to May from 10am - 11am except on One Service Sundays. (See schedule)
We practice an interactive model that teaches biblical stories and spiritual topics. We offer a variety of activities that reflect the message of the week.
First Communion (Grade 2 and up)
This ministry is part of the Sunday School Program as the children are guided through education in the preparation of receiving the Lord’s meal. First communion service is held on Maundy Thursday (the night before Good Friday) as this reflects the first time Jesus gave bread and wine to his disciples.
Confirmation Study (Grade 7-8)
This Catechetical Instruction prepares students for profession of faith and for an active church membership. It provides an opportunity for them to increase their faith through the knowledge of God’s word, Martin Luther’s Small Catechism, and life experiences.
Adult Bible Study
This instruction focuses on Biblical readings appointed for the upcoming Sunday. It is an opportunity to discuss, better understand, and relate the importance of the Word of God into the world around us as well as our everyday lives. The Adult Bible Study meets on Wednesday mornings from 9:30 to 11:00 beginning in September. Dates and readings to be announced.
Meet our Youth Education Leaders
Meet Debbie Jones
This is Debbie Jones. She is a wife and a mother who started helping with Christian Education when her 2 boys were young children. Now she has over 20 years of experience as a youth educator at Trinity and would love to tell you more about the opportunities for kids to grow in their faith during education time, worship, and social ministry projects.
Meet Heather Pianfetti
This is Heather Pianfetti. She has been married for almost 30 years and a mom to her 20 year old son. Heather and her family have been part of Trinity Lutheran Church for 12 years. She has been a youth educator at Trinity for six years, and is a vital part of our educational program’s special events such as the Christmas Pageant and the Souper Bowl of Caring. Heather will always greet you with a friendly smile. Feel free to say hello.
Frequently asked Questions?
Who Can Attend Education Time?
The lessons and activities are designed for children in pre-K through 6th grade. Family members are welcome to attend anytime but are not required to stay during the education time. Family members and the whole congregation are invited throughout the year to participate with the children in seasonal and social ministry projects.
When And Where Is Education Time Held?
On Sundays from about 10 am to 10:55 am, following Family Worship, the children grab a Bible from the bookshelf and meet in the Fellowship Hall with two education leaders. A new year of Education time starts in the fall after Labor Day and finishes before Memorial Day weekend. We usually do not have education time on one-service only Sundays or on holiday weekends.
What Do Children Do During Education Time?
The goal is to get the kids thinking and talking about God’s word and the message that Pastor Paul shares during Family Worship. Education time often starts by having the children read the Bible aloud and do some related worksheet activities. Other activities such as making crafts or playing games keep the kids engaged and give them time for fellowship with each other. The lessons and activities are adjusted for the ages and personalities of the kids who attend on any given Sunday. The children love making pretzels to eat and to share, so they bake Prayer Pretzels at least once a year for either Reformation or Lent. Each Advent season, all children are invited to participate in the annual presentation of the Christmas Story. At the end of each school year, the children plant sunflower and zinnia seeds in the flower gardens. In the summer and the fall the flowers provide a colorful and beautiful welcome to all who enter TLC.
How Are The Children Involved With Social Ministries?
The children are given many opportunities to work on service projects during and outside of Education Time, often in collaboration with parents, grandparents, siblings, and the congregation. This past year they helped set up and serve at the Souper Bowl of Caring, assembled personal care, school, or baby kits for Lutheran World Relief, selected gifts to support ELCA World Hunger using loose change donated by the congregation during Lent, helped their families host Trunk-or-Treat, and decorated boxes used for the Reverse Advent Calendar food collection.
Do Children Need To Be Registered To Attend Education Time?
Registration is not required but is appreciated to help the educators learn names of the children and their family members, provide age-appropriate activities, and be aware of any allergies or special needs. In early September we invite all families to join us for fellowship after Family Worship to reconnect after the summer break. Children and families who would like to participate in education time are welcome to join us at any time throughout the year.
How can I help with Education Time?
If you would like to volunteer your time with the children’s learning programs please speak with Debbie Jones or
Heather Pianfetti on Sunday mornings. Or, you can simply contact us.