Children, Youth & families

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Sunday morning worship remains the most important factor in the faith formation of young people. At St. Mark’s we emphasize the importance of families worshipping together and affirm the place of children in our worship space. It is also important for children to learn the foundational stories of our faith through Sunday School. St. Mark’s offers families with children the opportunity to worship together while also providing Sunday School during the worship hour.

PreK-4th Grade - Sunday School (September-May)

Students begin their morning with their families in the worship service before heading to class for the week’s Bible lesson. Following their classroom time students rejoin their families for the close of worship. Worship begins each week at 9:30am. 

Ages 0-4 - Nursery and Grace Space

Families with younger children are invited to make use of our Grace Space and Nursery. 

The Nursery is open to parents and their young children during  and after morning service. Parents can drop their children off in the nursery when staffed. The worship service is also broadcast into the nursery. The nursery is staffed most weeks between September and May. 

The Grace Space is a special place in the sanctuary designed for young children to move and play during worship. As children are nourished by quiet play in the Grace Space, parents are freed to be spiritually nourished by participating in morning worship. 

5th-12th Grade -  Worship Service

Older children are encouraged to participate in worship service along with the congregation. Through regular participation in worship, children learn the rhythm of the worship and the seasons of the church, hear the Word, and share in Holy Communion. 

Wednesday Nights are Community Night at St. Mark’s and we provide a variety of options for families each week.

Community Meal - 5:00-6:00pm 

These meals are open to all. We provide these meals at no cost but welcome a free will offering of $3/person, no more than $12/family. 

Faith Formation Hour - 6:00-7:00pm 

Each week there are options for people of all ages to engage their faith and build relationships. 

• Youth Activities (PreK-6th Grade)  Weekly Activities such as crafts, service projects, lessons, and games. 
• Confirmation(7th-8th Grade) Confirmation students learn about their Christian faith and the Lutheran tradition as they grow as disciples of Jesus. 
• Youth Group (9th-12th Grade) High Schoolers gather for conversation, Bible study, games and other activities as they build up their faith and relationships. 
• Adult Convo Parents and other adults gather each week for casual conversations about faith and life. This is a great opportunity to connect with other adults and is a great pick me up in the middle of a busy week. 

Prayer and Praise Communion Service - 7:00-7:30pm  We end each Wednesday with a short service including music, prayers, and communion. 

For More Information

To learn more about programs for children, youth, and families, please contact the church office at 651-777-7451 or stmarks@stmarks-nsp.org. You may also contact Deacon Kate or Pastor David.