Faith Development in Children and Youth
Faith development encompasses the entire life of the church and we educate for Christian ministry through service, fellowship, worship, teaching, and witness. Not every person learns and grows in faith in the same way, so it is important to offer a variety of experiences and learning opportunities.
At LUMC, we have carefully mapped out a learning plan for children and youth based on their developmental needs.
Nursery and 2 Year Olds: At this age children experience God through other people in safe and nurturing environments. They learn basic concepts of trust, love, and sharing. A young child doesn’t make the separation between the physical and spiritual “self”, and faith foundations are established by meeting the child’s needs.
3 Year Olds, 4 Year Olds, & Kindergarten: This age group is on a 3-year “scope and sequence” plan that includes broad themes of the Bible that are repeated to enhance learning. Preschoolers make friends at church and learn in centers about Jesus and his life and ministry, Moses, Noah, Creation, Abraham and his family, and our church.
1st—5th Grades / Faith TraX Rotation Sunday School: Elementary-aged children are on a 5-year scope and sequence encompassing major Bible stories, church rituals, and character and faith development. Children learn in a variety of ways using the 7 styles of multiple intelligences that make the Word of God attractive and memorable to young people.
6th Grade Confirmation Class: As young persons reach the age of accountability, they are ready to take more responsibility for their own faith. Confirmation is a call to discipleship and the process provides a systematic overview of the Christian faith. Our 2009 class is at right.
Junior and Senior High Youth: Youth have a basic need to ask questions! They want to know: “how does the Bible apply to me and my life?” Youth are introduced to faith in action through mission and service.
