Children and Family Ministry
At Gethsemane, we believe in building strong, loving relationships with children and we partner with parent and adult volunteers to provide safe, fun and faith-filled programs and events. Our mission is to show these young children that they are cared for and loved by Jesus, and to give them opportunities to experience God in a way that will allow their faith to grow throughout their lifetime.
Our Children’s Ministry programs focus on building relationships with our youngest children and their families. We provide caring volunteers who teach children the basic stories of the Bible and help them encounter a loving relationship with Jesus. All children learn that church is a safe place, that everyone is welcome here, and that nothing—absolutely nothing—can separate them from the love of Christ.
Children In Worship
Children are always welcome at Gethsemane and we encourage you to worship together as a family. To help your family feel welcome, we offer a number of spaces and activities designed for children to experience worship in a variety of ways. We trust families will find the option(s) that work best for them. If you happen to have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out to an usher, pastor or any member of our Children, Youth & Family staff.
ACTIVITY BAGS | 18 months - Grade 6
Located in the Narthex, these bags contain a wide variety of items to keep little hands occupied. There are busy bags geared for different age levels including toddlers, preschool and elementary ages. Children’s bulletins and coloring pages are also available nearby.
THE PRAYGROUND
At Gethsemane, as Jesus did, we welcome children of all ages – and we welcome the sounds and activity that accompany them! One of these options is the PrayGround. The PrayGround is located in the Narthex across from the ushers' desk. This area is designed for little ones to play and crawl during worship.
NURSERY
If you prefer, or if your little one simply needs a break, there is a nursery available for you and your little one. The nursery is not currently attended, so we as that at least one parent/adult accompany their little ones while in the nursery.
Infants and Toddlers
"Keep these words that I am commanding to you today in your heart. Recite them to your children and talk about them when you are home and when you are away, when you lie down and when you rise." (Deuteronomy 6:6-7)
Parents, you are the primary faith teachers for your children. We have great tools for you! Here are some simple steps you can take to nurture your child's faith:
Read Bible Stories at Home. If you are looking for a good picture Bible, we can help.
Bless Your Baby. After saying bedtime prayers, simply take your index finger, make the sign of the cross on your child's forehead while saying, "God loves you, and so do I."
Pray at Mealtime and Bedtime. Spend time each day thanking God for the day, and pray for the people in your life that are in need of support through prayer.
Children are always welcome in worship.
Sunday School
"but Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.’" Mark 19:14
Gethsemane Lutheran church strives to partner with parents as they pass along the gift of faith to their children. We believe that children can sense the presence of God’s love even at a very early age. Our programs offer engaging Bible stories, activities, worship, and fellowship. Gethsemane offers Sunday school to children ages 3 through 6th grade.
You do not need to be a member of our congregation to participate in Sunday school or any other activity through Gethsemane. All are welcome here.
REGISTRATION
Registration is open for the 2023-24 school year.
Vacation Bible School
TREE OF HEALING
June 10-13, 2024
Get ready for an exciting week at Gethsemane, as we kick off summer with "Tree of Healing", Vacation Bible School! Join us on June 10-13th from 9 am-12 pm for crafts, games, bible stories, snacks, singing, and celebrating! Children ages 3- 6th grade are invited to join for a nominal fee of $30.
Is your family in need of before/aftercare to make VBS a full week of camp? This year we will offer VBS Extended Care! Choose from morning, afternoon, and/or Friday care for School-Age children who are enrolled in VBS and have completed grades K through 6th. The children will have the chance to continue exploring the VBS theme with a thoughtful curriculum, active play, special crafts, and a Friday outing! Before Care: M-Th 7-9 am $50, After Care: M-Th 12-5 pm $120, Friday Care: 7 am- 5 pm $60, Before, After + Friday: $190
Register today to secure a VBS T-shirt in your child's size! Scholarships available for VBS (can not be offered for Extended Care)
VBS volunteers are also always needed, let us know if you are interested in helping out! Contact Nina Zieska at nzieska@glconline.org for more information.
Events For The Family
Throughout the year we provide different events of fun, faith, and fellowship for families. Everyone is welcome to our community events! If you have any questions, please contact Pastor Lydia at (952) 935-1120 or lsvenulski@glconline.org or Nina Zieska at (952) 935-1116 or nzieska@glconline.org.
FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT
Friday, April 19 at 5:30 PM
Join us for an exciting Movie Night on the big screen, Friday, April 19, at 5:30 pm. It will be a fun night to get creative and cozy! To begin the night, each child will decorate a large child-size box, to watch the movie from! Boxes and crafting supplies are provided but you are also welcome to bring your own! Popcorn, cotton candy, and drinks will also be provided! Bring all the blankets, pillows, and stuffies that your heart desires! This is a FREE event and all are welcome. Invite family, friends, and neighbors to join us. Contact nzieska@glconline.org for more information.
FAMILY SUMMER CAMP AT CAMP HOUSE
July 12-15, 2024
Join us for a long weekend retreat up north this summer! We will be headed to Camp House, 45 minutes northwest of Duluth to Brimson, MN on July 12-15th! Camp House is a retreat camp owned by Green Lake Ministries! Spend some quality family time on the pristine waters of Lake George, where each family will stay in individual, rustic cabins. Enjoy home-cooked meals, campfire worship, a wood-fired cedar sauna, a wood-fired outdoor pizza oven, a North Shore outing, and waterfront activities such as Kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, a floating dock, and a sandy beach!
All GLC families, of all configurations and generations are welcome! The confirmation-aged kids will also be joining us as a group before they head to the Boundary Waters for their week-long canoe trip. The cost includes all lodging and meals. Adults: $229, Children 6-17: $160, 5 and under: FREE. Contact nzieska@glconline.org for more information.
