G.I.F.T. at First English Lutheran Church
G.I.F.T. is the acronym for "Growing in Faith Together", a LOGOS-based program for children in grades 1-12. Here at FELC, our after school program for grades 1-6 operates from 3:45 — 7 pm while grades 7-8 meet for Confirmation from 7-8:30 pm and our High School LYF for grades 9-12 is held 6:45-8:15/8:30 pm.
According to our G.I.F.T. handbook, G.I.F.T. "provides all the dynamics of a good camp program but is experienced in the context of the life" of our church here at FELC. It emphasizes intergenerational relationships and a relationship with Jesus Christ in an authentic community of faith. It does NOT replace any of our other Christian Education programs but rather "works to enhance those programs through the strength of faith and involvement in the parish." It also gives our children and youth a place to live a life of faith, practice Christian relationships, and experience a taste of the Kingdom of God each week. It involves a high level of commitment from the congregation, parents, church staff, and from the youth themselves.
G.I.F.T. is comprised of 4 basic ministry areas:
- Bible time — to nurture children and youth into intelligent and Biblically informed discipleship
- Worship time — to develop responsibility for and practice in worship skills because worship is a primary service to God as disciples
- Play time — to experience great fun at the expense of no one
- Family time — to provide a joyous, intergenerational celebration of God's family over a shared meal as we experience our unity in Christ
Our G.I.F.T. staff includes:
Co-Directors: Keith McCloud and Keri Duhn
Family Time Director: Lesley Culver; Lori Erichsen, Asst
Snack Coordinator: Janice Breidinger
Bible Time Director: Trudy Hallgren
Worship Time Director: Marlena Langner; Kristen Kaldahl, Asst
Playtime Director: Vanessa Erichsen
Comforter: Rachel Johnson
Dinner Dean: Pastor Kaldahl
Secretary/ Treasurer: Mary McCloud
High School Director: Bonnie Kabrick
G.I.F.T. Advisory Committee:
Kristin Kaldahl, Rich Hartmann, Tim & Ranae Kehoe, Shari Crew
Table Parents:
Mike & Katie Koenecke, Scott Nolte, Jay Mosher, Heidi & Briana Westphal, Marcia Peters, Tim & Ranae Kehoe, Lynn & Karen Wee, Darlene Allen, Charles Peterson, and Dean & Bev Skinner.
We also thank all of the other congregational and parent volunteers who help make this ministry a reality. We appreciate your dedicated service in helping the children and youth of our congregation grow in their faith and in a loving relationship with our merciful God!! Please keep them in your prayers!
In His Service,
Bonnie Kabrick
Director of Christian Education
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