What to Expect

Our Christian Formation hour between the 9:00 and 11:15 services offers adults the opportunity to learn and deepen their faith in a group class setting. Our Theologian-in-Residence, Dr. Christopher Hall, often teaches during this time, as do other gifted leaders. In all of our classes, we seek to offer teaching and discussion that equips and encourages us to lean into the abundant life available to all disciples of Jesus.

Our Summer series is David & God: A Love Story—through August 18.

Our youngest parishioners are always welcome in our Sunday services. We believe that all of our children have a place in the church, not just at the church—and our programming reflects this truth. At Good Sam, it is our hope and prayer that each child feels loved and valued as they come through our doors.

Infants. We offer nursery care for infants in bright, welcoming, dedicated spaces. Parents are also welcome to use the space to feed their little ones, or simply to take a break from the 9 am or 11:15 am services, which are broadcast in the nursery.

Toddlers and Preschool. We offer continuous care for our toddlers and preschoolers from 9 am (with check in beginning at 8:45 am) through the conclusion of the 11:15 am service. During the 9 am service the children receive an age appropriate lesson. During the Christian Formation Hour between services students will engage in topical studies with lessons and hands-on activities. During the 11:15 am service, the lesson is through Godly Play, engaging the creative process through biblical storytelling and offering a language for children to begin to engage with God.

Kindergarten – 1st Grade. Children in grades K – 1 hear a children’s message during the 9 am service. During the Christian Formation Hour between services students will engage in topical studies with lessons and hands-on activities. During the 11:15 am service, the message is through Godly Play, engaging the creative process through biblical storytelling and offering a language for children to begin to engage with God. The students return to their families for Holy Communion. Care is also available during the Christian Formation hour between services.

Elementary School. Children in grades 2 – 5 stay with their families for the beginning of either the 9 am or 11:15 am services, and are dismissed prior to the sermon. After hearing a children’s message, they return to their families for Holy Communion. During the Christian Formation Hour between services students will engage in topical studies with lessons and hands-on activities.

Club 56. Throughout the summer, Club 56 takes place during the sermon of both the 9 am and 11:15 am services and provides a small group discussion for students who have completed grades 5 and 6. Teaching is also geared towards helping students learn how to engage in the totality of the church worship service in the fall.

Special Needs. We believe when Jesus said “Let the little children come to me,” he meant all children! If your family has a need of which we should be aware, please reach out to Kimberly Lindquist, Director of Family Ministries.

Middle School. Throughout the school year, Core Groups take place during Christian Formation between services. Grades 6 – 8 meet in the Youth Room for small group discussion.

High School. Throughout the school year, Core Groups take place during Christian Formation between services. Grades 9 – 12 meet in the Upper Room for small group discussion.

Special Needs. If your family has a need of which we should be aware, please reach out to Jessica Campbell, Director of Student Ministries.