Children & Youth

Jesus said, “Let the children come to me.” (Matthew 19:14)

Sunday School

Sunday School begins at age 4 and goes through 6^th grade. Following the children’s message during Sunday morning worship, the kids join their teachers to engage with God’s Word in their own lively manner. They return to the worship service as we gather for Holy Communion.

In Sunday School we want all children to experience God’s love, encounter the Bible in an age-appropriate way, enjoy meaningful relationships with other kids and adults, and grow as followers of Jesus.

First Communion

Fourth-graders receive their First Communion at Gloria Dei on the Sunday following Easter.

Children who are preparing to receive communion for the first time, along with their parent(s), meet with the pastor in the weeks leading up to that Sunday.

Confirmation

Our Confirmation class includes youth in seventh and eighth grades. The two-year curriculum includes an introduction to the Old and New Testaments, the Apostles’ Creed, the Lord’s Prayer, Holy Communion, Holy Baptism, the Reformation, and other topics related to a life of faith. Together we explore what it means to be a follower of Jesus and how we live out our faith in the ways we serve, worship, pray, study scripture, and give to others.

Youth from Gloria Dei are encouraged to attend a week of Confirmation Camp held each July at Crossroads Camp and Retreat Center.

Youth Involvement

The young people of Gloria Dei are actively involved in leading worship and serving others in God’s name.

We participate in a variety of youth events sponsored by the New Jersey Synod and Cross Roads Camp.

Vacation Bible School

We welcome kids from throughout the community to join us for Vacation Bible School (VBS). You do not need to be a member of our Church to register for VBS. Participating kids must be at least four years old (by October 1, 2020) to completing 5th grade in June. Older kids are welcome to join as leaders and assistants.

Monday-Thursday, June 29 – July 2, 9:30am – 12:15pm
Sunday, July 5: VBS Gathering at Worship to conclude the week at 10 am

VBS – Registration Form _20

Rolling River Rampage VBS

Join the fun this summer as we experience the ride of a lifetime with God!

Rafters will explore how to serve God and God’s mission for their lives. Rolling River Rampage VBS is for children who will be 4 years old by October 1, 2018 with the oldest completing Grade 5 in June.

Monday through Thursday, July 16-19, 9:30 am – 12:15 pm

Click here for registration form:

VBS – Registration Form _18