Back-to-School Season at CtK

There has been a hint of autumn in the air these past few

days. Children are excitedly (or perhaps begrudgingly!)

shopping for new school supplies, and families are

doing their best to savor the last fleeting moments of summer vacation. Here at Christ the King, we're preparing for a busy and exciting new ministry year. Program calendars are being finalized, classrooms and supply closets are getting reorganized, and we're learning

everything we can about next summer’s ELCA National Youth Gathering.

The life of a youth worker is never dull. Between planning calendars, selecting curriculum, decorating classrooms, attending students' sporting events and music performances, writing agendas, organizing trips, and managing countless Excel spreadsheets, there is always something happening behind the

scenes. As busy as this season can be, I couldn't be more excited about seeing your children again and spend a little less time in front of a computer screen!

Blessing of the Backpacks

Join us on Sunday, September 13, during worship for our annual Blessing of the Backpacks. Students, teachers, and educational staff are invited to bring items that accompany them throughout their week, including:

• Backpacks

• Computers and tablets

• Work bags

• Other school or work essentials

Together, we'll pray for God's guidance, protection, and blessing throughout the new school year.

Sunday School Begins September 20

We're excited to welcome children back for Sunday School on Sunday, September 20.

Sunday School is open to children ages 3 through 3rd grade and takes place during worship. Following the children's message, students will head to their classrooms for age-appropriate learning and activities.

Children will be dismissed at 10:15 a.m. If worship concludes earlier, parents and guardians are encouraged to take advantage of the extra few minutes to enjoy fellowship and conversation, in the Gathering Area, while their children finish up Sunday School. Still looking to sign your child(ren) up for Sunday School?

Christian Education & Confirmation

The start of the school year also marks the return of our Christian Education and Confirmation programs, which will begin on Wednesday, September 23.

To help families prepare for the year ahead, parents of students in 4th through 9th grade are invited to attend a Parent Information Meeting on Wednesday, September 16, at 6:30 p.m. During this meeting, we'll review program expectations, discuss the year's schedule, and answer any questions you may have.

We encourage all families with students in these grades to attend as we kick off another year of learning, faith formation, and fellowship together.

High School Youth

Youth in grades 9 through 12 are invited to join us for High School Youth Group on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month from 7:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. If bonfires, games, and 12 Square sound like fun, we would love to have you join us!

National Youth Gathering

The ELCA National Youth Gathering is a faith-forming event that takes place every three years, bringing Lutheran youth from across the country together for worship, service, learning, and fellowship. This year’s Gathering will be held in Minneapolis in June 2027 with the theme Imagine More. Interested youth must be in grades 8 through 12 during the 2026/2027 school year. An informational meeting will be held on Sunday, September 20, at 10:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall.

Haven’t Registered Yet?

There’s still time! Visit christ-the-king.org/grow to complete your registration and ensure your child is ready for another year of growing in faith with us.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back for another wonderful year of growing in faith, building relationships, and seeing how God’s love comes to life at Christ the King.

Your Sibling in Christ,

Susie Selle

She/Her/Hers

Director of Faith Formation: Sunday School – H.S. Youth