Prayer, rituals, and faith practices at home are the leading reason why young people grow up to have faith. Check out these Faith To Go resources; and our library, which has great books, DVDs, and small group bible studies. Additional children and youth information.

Young children are loved and nurtured in their immediate family, and welcomed in their church family. As we all live out the promises made at baptism, we’re honored to partner with families in faith formation. Check out our parent group, and family-fun events. Additional children and youth information.

Children begin to learn stories from scripture in small groups at church. As we all live out the promises made at baptism, we’re honored to partner with families in faith formation. Find parent group, Shepherd’s Kids (Christian education/Sunday school), weekday preschool, communion preparation class, family-fun events, summer mini camps, and Vacation Bible School (VBS). Spark Story Bibles are given to all new students in Shepherd’s Kids. Additional children and youth information.

Children dig deeper into the Old and New Testaments, learning to relate Biblical values to life today. As we all live out the promises made at baptism, we’re honored to partner with families in faith formation.  Find Shepherd’s Kids and Zone 45 (Christian education/Sunday school), communion preparation class, family-fun events, Lutheran Bible camp (Camp Wapo), summer mini camps, and Vacation Bible School (VBS). A NRSV Bible is given to all Zone 45 students (4th and 5th grade). Additional children and youth information.

Confirmation runs from grades 6 – 9, and ends with the Rite of Confirmation in the fall of grade 10. In our program, young people form supportive small groups, review the core teachings of the Christian faith, serve others, and develop faith practices. Faith formation also happens during summer opportunities like Bible camp, service trips, and mission trips. There are also retreats, fellowship events (like Run Ragged ’til Midnight and March Mystery Madness), and serving opportunities like volunteering at Feed My Starving Children. See more about middle school opportunities.

Young adults explore their maturing faith, find ways to participate in broader congregational life, and work to identify God’s call for their lives. Our Confirmation program continues through grade 9, and ends with the Rite of Confirmation in the fall of grade 10. Leadership opportunities (like small group leaders in GodZone and Confirmation) help young people put their faith into practice. Summer camp and mission trips are life-changing experiences where youth and adults are immersed in service and Christian community. Retreat options exist at different times for faith formation and friendship. See more about high school opportunities.

People in all stages of their faith journey are invited to connect with one another to grow their biblical understanding, strengthen relationships, apply faith to daily life, and serve Christ together. If you are interested in becoming a member of Shepherd of the Valley, sign-up for the one night class here.

We offer short term Bible studies and discussions led by pastors and experts, and ongoing peer-led bible studies for men and women. Learn about the Bible and scripture from free online resources.

We offer a variety of classes that address your needs and interests, on topics like FaithBasics, retirement, and end-of-life planning. Also, we have weekly forums on Sundays in the Chapel, and events sponsored by the Racial Truth & Justice Team, and special classes and events. See what’s happening now on our events page.

If you’d like to start a new small group, we have a variety of resources to help. Julie Opheim would be happy to help you get started; contact her at 952.985.7331.