Sunday School Staff 2025-2026
Above: Sunday School Staff were installed during the worship service on September 14, 2025
Christian Education
Vacation Bible School:
We had a fantastic week in Ireland. We studied about David and how he had a strong relationship with God and how that relationship led him throughout his life. God is our Shepherd, leader, comforter, provider, and a promise keeper. A heartfelt "Thank You" to everyone who generously donated food for our suppers as well as the monetary donations for our snacks; thank you for you prayers and support. We also appreciate everyone who worked behind the scenes and to our awesome and dedicated VBS staff. (We welcomed six new people to our VBS family--all had a great time!) To the parents and grandparents who brought the children to Vacation Bible School to learn about Jesus and to those who helped put the decorations up and take them down, "Thank You." See you next year (August 8th--12th, 2027).
"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want." Psalm 23:1
Sunday School/Jr and Youth Bible Study:
It's hard to believe that we are back to our fall schedule here at church and school. Be sure to mark these dates on your calendars: Sunday, September 13 during the Divine Worship Service, Sunday School teachers and staff will be installed. Sunday School and Youth Bible Class registration will take place following the worship service. Sunday, September 20 will be the first day of classes for Sunday School (Pre-K -- 5th grade) and Youth Bible Study (6th --12th grade). Classes run from 10:00 -- 11:00 a.m. All children and youth are welcome as we explore God's word together! We will be using the "Bible in Life" curriculum.
St. John Youth Group:
The youth were busy selling pizzas (Larry's Family Pizza) in August. We will have an update on the pizza sales in the October newsletter.
Faith, Family, and Fellowship:
Faith, Family, and Fellowship will gather on Wednesday, October 7, to pack the Thanksgiving Day Meals for the Wadena Food Shelf. Supper will be served at 5:30 p.m. On October 31, we will again have our "Trunk or Treat." More information will follow next month.
The next Board of Christian Education meeting will be Sunday, September 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
Blessings now and always,
Dianne S. on behalf of the Board of Christian Education (Emily C., Bonnie E., Amy K., Dianne S., and Missy S.)
"Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it" Proverbs 22:6.
News from the Board of Christian Education
Vacation Bible School 2026 Emerald Crossing: An Irish Adventure Through Psalm 23
📖 The Lessons: What Kids Will Learn at Emerald Crossing
Emerald Crossing is rooted in Psalm 23, helping kids move from anxiety to peace by trusting the Good Shepherd. Each day, kids explore a verse from the psalm and a story from David’s life, learning that God leads, protects, provides, and stays with them always. It’s a powerful journey that gives kids confidence to face life with faith, knowing they’re never alone.
Day Theme Focus Bible Story
Day 1 I am God’s sheep Psalm 23:1; 1 Samuel 17:34–37
Day 2 God leads me Psalm 23:2–3; 1 Samuel 17
Day 3 God comforts me Psalm 23:4; 1 Samuel 19–23
Day 4 I can be grateful Psalm 23:5; 2 Samuel 5:1–5
Day 5 God is always with me Psalm 23:6; 2 Samuel 7; 1 Chronicles 22
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When you purchase a gift card from the youth scrip program, the merchant returns a portion of the money spent to the youth of St. John. This is a marvelous way to support our youth programs at no extra cost to the purchaser!
Right: Youth selling scrip gift cards for Valentine's Day gifts.
Right: Youth pictured selling roses, blankets and candy bars on February 8, 2026, for Valentine's Day. Net proceeds go to the Youth account for the next youth gathering.
