We Believe Every Family and Child is a Gift

Our focus on faith formation for children and youth is relationship-centered. We value integrating young people into the fabric of our faith community; so check out the variety of ways we offer both age-specific and intergenerational children & youth ministries. 

Read about our Safe Church Policy here.

Sacred Circle Sunday School

During a portion of the 10am Sunday service, the children gather in our education wing for age-specific Sunday School. We value a rhythm of sharing and learning that builds confidence in bible stories and assurance that God's love is accessible for us all! The children have the chance each week to engage our Faith5 Sacred Circle, where we 1. Share highs and lows, 2. Read a sacred story, 3. Respond with conversation and activity, 4. Pray together, and 5. Bless one another! "Blessed to be a blessing" is the truth we seek to teach each week.


​Faith Lab

During the worship service, the children are welcome forward to engage in Faith Lab, where we seek to bring faith to life for young and old alike! Pastor Emily and Del Bartels lead this fun moment in worship, but it's the children who best reveal God's love each week. Throughout the year, Faith Lab also integrates various children ministries within the space of worship, such as VBS songs, children's bell choir, Souper Bowl of Caring campaign, Baptisms, and other milestone events.


​Christmas Program

Each year our children lead us in recalling Joseph and Mary's journey to the stable with a simple and spirited children program! We include several musical numbers by the choir, the children's bell choir, youth special music, and any other songs our children prepare. The Christmas program usually occurs the 3rd Sunday in Advent.


​Blessing of the Backpacks

Every fall, we send our students and teachers back into the classroom with a blessing. The pressures and challenges in the educational environment are many, and we pray for God's guidance and grace in the lives of our young people and all those who care for our young people in the school setting.


​Vacation Bible School

Each summer we host a crew of eager K-5th grade students who learn bible truths, play silly games, engage clever crafts, eat creative snacks, and learn some really fun songs! Our time in VBS enriches all who participate, including our many adult volunteers. The final evening of VBS, the kids present a bit of what they learned and the songs they enjoy for their parents and loved ones.


​Handbell Choir

A highlight for the entire congregation, children practice and perform their song the same Sunday! With plenty of enthusiasm and a little practice, our young people guide us to God's glory by ringing bells. It's so simple, even preschoolers can participate in this music ministry! And our youth and teacher often help too, making this a truly beautiful aspect of worship life.


​Confirmation

​In an act of affirming the vows made at baptism, youth 6th grade and up (you can begin at any age) enter a two-year discernment and formation process we call confirmation. Throughout those two years, our youth meet weekly during the school year to engage sacred stories, service projects, mentor relationships, and worship leadership. The journey culminates in the creation of a personal statement of faith, which is celebrated on Confirmation Sunday. If you have a young person in your life that would enjoy this discernment and spiritual growth process, contact Pastor Emily.


​Youth Group

Our youth are integrated into many aspects of shared ministry, including serving on our executive council, leading worship, enjoying Messy Church, participating in our many service opportunities, helping with the younger kids' programs, and everything in-between. We also aim to gather monthly for special events such as bonfires, games, seasonal activities in the community, an annual hayride, and ecumenical youth events hosted by our Oahe Area Youth Association Events, such as a lock-in for middle school students, worship in the park, and service projects.


​Placerville Camp

Placerville holds a special place in the hearts of many who attend this Black Hills spiritual oasis. It's our cherished UCC summer camp destination and hosts a variety of age-specific camps. You can find specific information about the upcoming camping season here.