For Children and Youth
St. Stephen’s strives to be a welcoming place for all people. Our families with children and youth include all kinds and sorts of families: single parents, LGBTQ families, multi-generational families, blended families, and everything in between. We strive to provide our young people with a safe, vibrant, multi-generational worshipping community that knows and supports them as they learn about God and integrate their faith into their lives. We want to support families with children and youth as they strive to support their own children, and offer a variety of family friendly events, as well as formation opportunities.
During worship
Children of all ages are welcome to join us in worship. Our 808am worship (begins 8/10/25) is designed to be child friendly with storytelling, reflection, and hands on stations. During 10:15am Worship, kids are invited to come forward for a special children’s sermon and blessing. Worship bags are available to use in the pews. For children who need wiggle room, families may use the library (at the back of the Sanctuary) where adults can still observe worship and listen to the service. We want you to do whatever works best for you and your family.
nursery care
We offer nursery care for children under 5 in the Library behind the Sanctuary.
sunday school
9am Sundays (Sept-May)
We follow a Godly Play curriculum with our youngest children (preschool-early elementary). It is hands-on Montessori like program where children explore the stories of the Bible and the church year (think Christmas, Easter, etc). Older elementary kids engage in a similar process with more time for reading & reflection.
Youth Group
monthly following 10:15 worship (Sept-May)
Our youth group meets monthly during the school year and occasionally during the summer. They enjoy engaging in Bible study, spiritual formation, and service projects. They also plan social gatherings and join in diocesan youth events.
All of our children and youth ministries are led by staff and volunteers who love caring for children and youth and who have been screened and trained.
UPCOMING EVENTS
August
8/10 Backpack Blessing, 9am-Back to School Celebration and Parent Brunch
8/17- 9am Sunday school begins
8/23 5pm- Mass in the Grass
8/24- 9am Youth group meets
8/31 10:15am- Rite 13 Celebration
September
9/7 1pm Youth group trip to Urban Air
9/13 4pm Auction/ Game Night for Kids
October
10/5 9am-1pm St. Francis/ Pet Blessing & Fall Festival
10/31 5-7pm Halloween Celebration and Chili Cook Off
Youth Group to Quest: Dates TBD
November
11/2 9am All Saints/ All Souls, intergenerational activities
11/15 5pm- Potluck Supper and Board Games
11/23 Thanksgiving Service, Advent Family Activities @9am; youth group meets @11:30am
