As we enter November, we’re reminded that gratitude is about more than simply saying thank you. It’s reflected in how we show up for one another, share what we’ve been given, and make a difference in the lives of those around us.

As we explore what it means to be More Than a Gift as a congregation, we celebrate the many ways our children, youth, and families contribute their time, talents, and hearts to our church family. We are so thankful for the ways we continue to grow, serve, and share life together!

Welcome (Birth–PreK) and Wonder (PreK-2nd grade)

Our Babies–2nd Graders have been exploring foundational Bible stories, including The Light, The Good Shepherd, Creation, Noah, and Abram and Sarai. Looking ahead, we'll discover how the Church tells time through the liturgical seasons, explore more stories from the Old Testament, learn about Jesus' life and teachings, and discover the meaning behind his parables.

Walk (3rd–5th Grade) + 6th Grade

Our 3rd-6th graders are spending the year exploring what it means to follow Jesus and live as his disciples. We’ve begun with the story of Jesus calling Peter, Andrew, James, and John to follow him, along with parables that help us understand how to live out his teachings, including The Good Shepherd and The Good Samaritan. As the year continues, we’ll keep discovering what it means to follow Jesus in our everyday lives.

We are so grateful for the children who fill our church each Sunday! They bring curiosity, laughter, creativity, energy, and sometimes a little chaos. But isn't that part of the joy of having children among us?

Mindy recently shared about a favorite childhood story from her family, The Littlest Angel. The little angel was messy, loud, and couldn't quite keep his halo in place (which, of course, made it a pretty fun toy!). Yet, when it came time to offer a gift to the newborn Christ, he brought something truly special: the precious memories of his life on Earth.

It's a beautiful reminder that the gifts we bring don't have to be perfect to be meaningful. Our children come to church just as they are, and we wouldn't have it any other way. Some Sundays, that means big excitement, lots of questions, busy bodies, big feelings, or a need for an extra-long hug in a grown-up's lap. Sometimes sitting quietly or joining the group looks a little different for each child.

We want every child and family to know that there is room for them here. We embrace the wiggles, the wonder, the noise, and all the beautiful messiness that comes with growing up in faith. After all, our church is not just a place where children learn about Jesus; it's a place where they belong, where their gifts are celebrated, and where we all grow together in the joy of Christ.

Wrestle + Witness (6–12th grade)

Our Youth Group has been exploring what it means to build meaningful peer relationships and create a community where everyone belongs. Through conversations and activities centered on themes like Bring Your Whole Self, There’s a Seat for You, Who Would Jesus Sit With? and Pull Up Another Chair, our 6th-12th graders are discovering how to make room for others, welcome different perspectives, and live out Jesus’ example of inclusion and love. Because there’s always room for one more at the table!