People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, "Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it." And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.
Mark 10:13-16

Fellowship - Children

Children are a vital part of the community of First Lutheran Church. We have activities for youth of all ages. Please see the pages for the middle school and high school programs for information on those groups.

Our Children's Center is outfitted like a preschool and includes a piano, play kitchen, games, books, toys, marble mazes, etc. Aside from the use of this facility for Sunday School and child care during Sunday services, events and concerts, several community groups use it for such family-friendly activities as Kids Make Music.

Off the Narthex we have our cry room. This is a friendly room into which fussy little ones and their families can retreat during services. The room features a crib, a variety of toys and books, and diaper changing supplies. A window and sound system allow parents to continue to be a part of the service while their children get some wiggle room. The cry room is also a wonderful place for young families to get to know one-another!

There are many opportunities for fellowship for the children of First. We have a number of activites throughout the year for children and their families including Picnic in the Park, Summer Nights, Easter egg hunts, talent shows, last year's S'karaoke Night and our 2002 Halloween "Freak-for-All" party to name just a few.

Children are encouraged to take an active part in worship. Sunday services include a children's sermon. The children pull out and sit on a prayer rug they created one year during Summer Nights. We hold two special family Christmas services: one on Christmas Eve where the children act out the story of Jesus's birth; and the Santa Lucia Festival - a brightly costumed musical performance of the story of Santa Lucia. Children ages 5 and up are invited to take part in the First Kid's Choir and older children may train to serve as Acolytes.