Annual Report from the Parish Education Committee

With all the support of the parish ed. committee members, the Sunday school teachers, pastors, and office staff, my first year as the committee chairperson has been a rewarding one.

In the past year Gloria Dei was able to send over 50 youth to Sugar Creek Bible Camp.  Many attended Confirmation camp, explorer day camp, and several other week long summer camps.

Gloria Dei also hosted Vacation Bible School for the first time since our construction project was completed.  With over 120 children from Gloria Dei, First United Methodist, First Congregational, and St. Mary’s Episcopal Churches plus helpers and staff, the extra space was awesome and very much appreciated.  Everyone enjoyed the “Serengeti Trek” theme and is looking forward to next year!  Thank you to Jane Tessmann, Lucy Marquardt, Jackie Kiel and everyone else that contributed in any way to make this week long event a memorable one.

Due to the numerous Thrivent Cinnamon Roll Sundays and other donations, new carpet was installed in the center classrooms and through the halls of the basement.  The center classrooms also got a fresh coat of paint just in time for Sunday School.

Sunday School kicked off with Rally Sunday on Sept. 11^th.  There were 123 students and 30 volunteers in attendance.  The theme was “Hand to Hand With God”.  The children enjoyed placing their painted handprints on the walls of the halls to carry through with the theme.

New bibles were also presented to all 3 year olds, 3^rd graders, and 7^th graders.  The 7^th and 8^th grade classes are using a new lectionary –based curriculum that is providing some very good discussion topics within their classrooms.

On Sunday, October 30,  18 young adults reaffirmed their faith in God through Confirmation.  Congratulations to all these young men and women.

Plans are currently underway for the Sunday School Christmas Program that will be held on Dec. 11^th during the 10:30 church service.