Augustana Lutheran Church of Hyde Park

A New Approach to Children’s Faith Formation at Augustana

Starting this fall, we are launching new opportunities for the children of Augustana to grow in their faith. Beginning Sunday, September 13, children’s education will be offered concurrently with the 10:45am worship service. All kids (potty-trained through eighth grade) are invited to participate. Kids will be dismissed before the readings, and they will return during the Sharing of the Peace. For approximately 30 minutes, kids will engage in age-appropriate biblical storytelling and reflection. We will be drawing upon a Montessori-based curriculum called Godly Play. The storytelling will be led by a member of the pastoral team (Pastor Matt or Vicar Adam) and a rotation of adult leaders.

Occasionally, we will use the time between the 8:30am and 10:45am services for additional special opportunities, like skits and puppets shows, and classes on baptism and holy communion. We are also looking to offer opportunities for kids and their families to take retreats to local Lutheran camps. Stay tuned as plans come together.

For our initial launch, we are able to offer Godly Play during the 10:45am service only, but once we return to a full pastoral staff, we intend to offer Godly Play at both Sunday services.

If you have any questions or are interested in becoming more involved, please contact Pastor Matt at campuspastor@augustanahydepark.org.