Children, Youth & families

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Sunday morning worship remains the most important factor in the faith formation of children. At St. Mark’s we emphasize the importance of families worshipping together and affirm the place of children in our worship space. 

Young children are invited into the Grace Space every Sunday during 9:30 am worship. 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 play in the Grace Space, parents are freed to be spiritually nourished by participating in morning worship. 

Older children are encouraged to follow the example of their parents, learning the liturgy, praying the prayers, singing the songs, hearing the preaching of God’s Word, and sharing in Holy Communion.  

Sunday School (ages 4-12): 10:35-11:15am

Each week, kids gather after worship to learn about the Bible through stories, creative activities and prayer. 

Youth Education takes place primarily on Wednesdays as we gather together for food, community, learning, and worship. Through those gatherings they learn how to be faithful disciples and how to be the church. 

St. Mark's Wednesday schedule includes:

• Dinner (5-6pm)
• Youth Education Hour (6-7pm) for youth of all ages (description below.) 
• Worship Service (7:00-7:30pm) We gather together as a large group for a meaningful time for music, Word, and prayer. 

St. Mark’s aims to teach children about God’s love for the world, God’s love for them, and how to love the world God has made. It is through learning these things that children grow up to be faithful adults that led healthy lives and make a positive impact on the world around them.

• Preschool (3-4 yr olds)  Our young children will share in a time of storytelling, prayer, and a simple craft as they build relationships with one another and the church community.  
• Elementary (K-6 grade)  Our goal is to engage our elementary-aged kiddos in acts of service to their families, community, and world. Each month there will be a focus theme where we revisit our Bible story each week and work together to serve our neighbors. 
• Confirmation (7th & 8th Grade) 
• High School Youth Group (9th-12th Grade)  Our high school youth will take a deep dive into figuring out what it means to be a young person of faith. Using our framework together - Think, Believe, Do -  we will explore how the things we think and believe help shape what we do and why we do it!  
• Adult Conversation Hour  This is a time for adults of all ages to gather together for faith-based conversations and community support. The perfect pick me up to get through the busy work week! 
  

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.