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.

FAMILY MINISTRY AND COMMUNITY EVENTS

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.

GOD'S SMALL SPARKS

Second Sunday of the Month

September to April

Families of young ones ages 0-3 years are invited to join us in the nursery during the education hour on the 2nd Sunday of each month. 

God's Small Sparks is a class for caregivers and their young children to experience Bible stories, singing, and hands-on activities in a setting where play and parent connection are at the forefront. 

Come get to know other young families in a laid-back setting! All are welcome, so feel free to invite others too. 

Please reach out to Nina Zieska with any questions at (952) 935-1753 or nzieska@glconline.org 

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Camp Firelight: June 16-19, 2025

Get ready for an exciting week at Gethsemane, as we kick off summer with Camp Firelight, Vacation Bible School! Join us on June 16-19th from 9 am-12 pm for crafts, games, bible stories, snacks, singing, and celebrating! Children ages 3 years to 5th grade graduate are elegible to sign up. $40 per child and scholarships are available. 

If you are in need of a scholarship, please reach out to us. We never want cost to keep you from joining us!

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.

FAMILY WINTER RETREAT

Friday, February 14 - Sunday, February 16

Green Lake Bible Camp, Spicer MN

Spend Valentine’s/President’s weekend with your church family! There are activities for everyone including snow tubing, cross-country skiing, hiking, relaxing by the fire with a book, games, a kids’ movie night, and time to connect and make new friends!

Each family will stay in a hotel-style room with a private bathroom and enjoy home-cooked meals. Families of all ages and configurations are welcome!

Adults: $163.50

Kids K-12: $134.25

Children 5 and under: Free

Contact Pastor Lydia at lsvenulski@glconline.org  for more information.

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

Upcoming Dates TBD

Join us throughout the year for Movie Nights on the big screen! These are fun nights to get creative and cozy! Whether we're decorating our own movie boxes or chilling with the family on chairs, couches, or the floor, watching a movie has never been so fun! Popcorn, cotton candy, and drinks are provided. Bring all the blankets, pillows, and stuffies that your heart desires! This are FREE events and all are welcome. Invite family, friends, and neighbors to join us. Contact Pastor Lydia at lsvenulski@glconline.org  for more information.

FAMILY SUMMER CAMP AT CAMP HOUSE

2025 Dates TBD

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! 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!