CYF Faith Formation Update
- Oak Knoll Lutheran Church
- Sep 3
- 3 min read
Written by Christina Black, Children, Youth, & Family Ministry Director
Scenes from Luther Crest
This year, we sent more than 20 kids to Luther Crest Bible Camp in Alexandria. Though they weren’t all there at the same time, they each enjoyed their week!
Seed Sorting
Several youth participated in a service project sorting seed packets to send to Mango Community Family Farm in Haiti. There were many leftovers for others to enjoy! Please take some to plant at your home and share with others—they are located in Fellowship Hall! To learn more about Mango Farm go to www.mangofarmhaiti.org.
Congratulations to All Performers!
Each one of the performers did a tremendous job performing in the youth showcase!
A Special Youth & Parent Night
On Sunday, August 17th, 35 youth and parents gathered at OKLC for dinner, a rousing game of Extreme Pictionary, and an interactive workshop. Led by Joy McElroy of Cherish All Children, a ministry of Lutheran Social Services of MN, we explored what makes good friendships or dating relationships, and the "red flags" that might indicate an unhealthy or even dangerous relationship. We talked about sextortion, grooming, catfishing, and consent. We also learned about the resources available to keep youth safe from predators (online and in person), where to turn for help, and making a safety plan.
Psalm 139:13-14 says: "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb...I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made." This Bible passage framed our discussion and reminded us of our worth as children of God. In 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, we read, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." God gives us these guidelines for how we are to treat one another.
Why are we talking about this at church? Don't youth learn this stuff at school? By engaging young people in discussions around safe and healthy relationships, they can gain lifelong skills that prepare them to make safe and healthy choices. Offering this learning in our faith community offers a unique opportunity to connect with youth in a safe space while reinforcing their value as a child of God.
If you are interested in learning more about this, contact Christina Black, CYF Director, at christina.black@oklutheran.org.
Sunday School Starts September 14th—Register Now!
All children 3 years old through 5th grade are welcome to join us for Sunday school each Sunday during part of worship service. Please register today and consider donating toward the program costs. More details, including a calendar, will be available soon. If you have questions, please reach out to Christina Black at christina.black@oklutheran.org. You can register online today!
Confirmation Kicks Off September 10th—Register Now!
Parents and youth should mark their calendars and plan to attend the first night of confirmation together (details to come shortly). Weekly confirmation is held for youth grades 6-8 each Wednesday from 6:00-7:20pm, starting with a meal and ending with small groups. More details, including a calendar, will be available soon. Register your youth for confirmation today at oklutheran.org/youth.
UPCOMING CYF EVENTS:
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