Children have an important place in the life and spirit of University Lutheran. UniLu is a church family that cherishes our children and encourages them to feel at home in their church.

Also see: Our Sunday School Teachers Sunday School Art Gallery

Children in Worship

Children are always welcome at worship. The last few pews in the sanctuary are reserved for families with small children who may wish to leave for parts of the service; other families find that sitting in the front pews makes it easier for children to see.

During communion, parents are welcome to bring their children--including those who spend the rest of the service in the nursery--into the Sanctuary to receive bread and a blessing. When children begin to ask about the meaning of communion, parents are encouraged to ask for pastoral instruction. Children who have completed a short series of classes with the pastors can begin to receive wine. Often this occurs around the fifth grade.

Several worship services during the year include a children's sermon and/or songs sung by the children. During other services, children may read lessons, gather the offering, help light Advent candles, participate in baptisms, or serve as acolytes. Services especially designed for families are held in the early evening on Christmas Eve and Good Friday.

Sunday School

University Lutheran offers Christian education classes on Sunday mornings for children from preschool through junior high school age. During the academic year, Sunday School begins at 10:00 A.M. in the second floor classrooms. At 10:40 the children gather in one classroom to share what they've learned, sing, and pray. Parents are welcome to participate in the closing.

The Sunday School curriculum focuses on Bible stories from both the New and Old Testaments. Activities and discussions help the children understand the spiritual significance of these stories and how they relate to everyday life.

Confirmation Class

As needed, the pastors lead Confirmation classes for junior and senior high students. These classes offer a basic education in Lutheran doctrine, discussions about applying church teachings to everyday life, and the opportunity to publicly affirm their baptism at the course's conclusion. If you or your child are interested in confirmation classes, please speak with one of the pastors about the current schedule.

Child Care

Our nursery, located on the second floor, is open every Sunday morning from 8:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. for all children up to five years of age. Nursery care is also provided during many special worship services and congregational meetings.