At Tree of Life, we celebrate milestones in the lives of our children and students. A milestone is a marker along a child's life that says, "This is important, God is here with you, and we are here to help you along your faith journey." Milestones reflect our desire to fulfill the promise of the congregation and family made to each child during their baptism.
Baptism - One of the two sacraments celebrated by the Lutheran Church is the baptism. When a child is baptized, they are received into the community of faith with the promise of eternal life and the forgiveness of sin. When infants are baptized, parents and the congregation make a promise to raise the child in a community of faith.
Kindergarten Pillows - When a child first enters Kindergarten, the seamstresses at Tree of Life create a personalized pillow for them. Children can write or draw their prayers, place them in the pocket of the pillow, with a goal of teaching them to pray daily.
First Communion - This important milestone typically takes place during first and third grade, at the parent's discretion. A one-time class teaches students about the Passover meal, the Passover, the Lord's Supper and what it means to receive the body and blood of Christ each week.
Second Grade Bibles - Upon entering second grade, each child in our care will receive a Bible. Children of any age who have joined us throughout the year will also receive a Bible during this worship service.
First Time Campers - Each student going to Camp Lutherhill for the first time will receive a blanket, which will be blessed during a worship service. These blankets will help them feel God's comfort when they are away from home. Warm blankets are a wonderful reminder that the love of God does not go away when we leave home. His love surrounds us wherever we go through the love and prayers of the congregation, family and friends.
Blessing of the Backpacks - Every August before school starts, students and teachers bring their backpacks, laptops, and even grading pens to be blessed by the pastor and congregation. Going to school presents challenges and opportunities that fill the hearts and minds of children and parents. In blessing the backpacks, we acknowledge that education is a way for us to live to the glory of God.
Sixth Grade Bibles - Students entering sixth grade receive a study Bible that is age appropriate and will help them develop a deeper understanding of The Bible and deepen their relationship with God.
Confirmation - The rite of Confirmation is the educational process of adolescent faith formation and a deeper understanding of the Lutheran worship service and theology. Completing confirmation marks the commencement of a new chapter of involvement in the faith community and serving in the body of Christ.
High School Graduation - Graduation is celebrated then followed by new choices, including faith connections and taking responsibility for future plans of the student. Graduates will experience blessings that remind them of the grace and love of their family, their congregation and from God.
