300 UNION AVENUE, SOMERVILLE, NJ 08876 Main Phone: 908.685.1660
A member of the NJ Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA)
Children & Youth Ministry
Lynda Pullis, Director of Children and Youth Ministry
Youth Ministry happens everywhere youth participate in the life of our church. Many opportunities are available to help our youth grow in faith so that they may serve Christ in our world.
"Bibles" - The Word of God
As adults, the Word is proclaimed during the Worship service: when we hear God's Word read to us, when we hear God's Word spoken, thru our pastor in the form of a sermon, and when we sing and pray. God's Word is also taught through intentional study - there are many classes available! Our children are also being taught God's Word through Sunday School classes, children's sermons, retreats, plays, and songs.
Every time there is a Baptism, parents promise the to 'place in their child's hands the scriptures and provide training in the Christian faith.' To help keep that promise, we are providing age appropriate bibles for parents to give their children at worship in September and October.
* Age 2 'The Beginners Bible' a picture Bible
* 2nd Grade 'The Children's Illustrated Bible' a story Bible with maps, photos and historical explanations
* 5th Grade 'The Good News Bible' a simple translation of a 'complete' Bible (This year's 5th grade already received their Bibles.)
* 9th Grade 'The Youth Bible' included are many relevant devotionals and stories.
Senior High (SOS)
The Senior Youth have adopted the name SOS (Seniors of the Shepherd) to identify the group and describe their mission in Christ "Save Our Souls". Therefore, rejoice; don't panic, when there is an SOS event at Good Shepherd.
The SOS group has enjoyed activities such as a weekend shore retreat, attending dances, ice skating, decorating our Church Christmas tree, a movie night, a game night, a basketball league night, hiking and attendance at our Winter Youth Assembly.
Junior High (GANG 678)
Our Junior Youth group adopted the name "GANG 678" meaning, "Guys and Gals All Need God".
Generally the GANG meets on the 1st and 3rd Sundays from 7-8:30 p.m.
They have enjoyed: weekend retreats at Crossroads campground and at the beach, dances with other Lutheran youth organizations, game nights, ski trip, bowling, movie nights, attending concerts together.
Some of our service projects included: preparing and serving soup for a congregational meeting, hosting a neighborhood Easter Egg hunt,and participating in the CROP Walk.
Music, Dance and Drama
There are many opportunities for sharing gifts of music, dance and drama at Good Shepherd church.
Sonshine Choir is for all youth (5th through 12th graders). Rehearsals are held weekly.
GSGP Dancers rehearse weekly to prepare to dance at worship and also some outside events. All ages are welcome.
Musical instrument players enhance special programs and worship
A Summer Drama Ministry produces a Christian drama for presentation.
Our Youth On The Go
Retreats
Opportunities for unique experiences are provided through retreats as confirmation students, senior youth group and junior youth group.
