Christian Education
Since the Holy Scriptures make us "wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus" (2 Timothy 3:15), we offer several Bible and Lutheranism studies for your edification, and a wonderful Sunday School program for your children. Both members and visitors are always welcome, so come and join us as we "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18).
Adult Bible Study
Sunday Bible Class
Our main Bible class gathers together to read and discuss a portion of God's Word. Led by our pastor, this class brings the timeless truths of God's Word to the modern day Christian in a meaningful way and always includes good discussion and application to one's life. This class meets in Luther Hall each Sunday morning at 10:45 a.m. (following worship and coffee/fellowship).
Men's Bible Breakfast
Following a hearty breakfast for the body, participating men will dive into God's Word to feed and nourish their soul. The study and discussion is geared to help guide and support men in their vocations as husbands, fathers, workers, neighbors, and helpers at church. This study, led by our pastor, meets at a local restaurant every third Saturday of the month, beginning at 8:30 a.m.
Women's Bible Study
Conversation. Companionship. Care. Concern. That's what awaits the women who participate in this study of God's Word. Special emphasis is given to guiding and supporting women in their vocations as wives, mothers, workers, neighbors, and helpers at church. This study, led by our pastor, meets in Luther Hall every second Tuesday of the month, beginning at 1:15 p.m.
Book of Concord Study
The Book of Concord of 1580 contains the confessions of the orthodox, evangelical Lutheran Church. Using Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions as our textbook, participants immerse themselves in the foundational teachings of Holy Scripture and our confession of faith as Lutherans. This study, led by our pastor, meets in Luther Hall every third Tuesday of the month, beginning at 7:00 p.m.
Sunday School
Children are valuable to us here at Divine Shepherd because children are valuable to our Lord. Holy Scripture teaches us to "train up a child in the way he should go," with the promise that "when he is old he will not depart from it" (Proverbs 22:6). Our Sunday School classes, led by a variety of knowledgeable and dedicated teachers, meet each Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. (following worship and treats).
Overview and Objectives
The following PDF documents provide an overview of our Sunday School program, as well as age-specific objectives. Select one to view or download:
- Sunday School Program (coming soon)
- Sunday School Objectives: Grades Pre-K (coming soon)
- Sunday School Objectives: Grades 1-2 (coming soon)
- Sunday School Objectives: Grades 3-4 (coming soon)
- Sunday School Objectives: Grades 5-8 (coming soon)
Staff
Superintendent: Tim Parmenter
Teachers: Jim Kranich, Denise Ziesemer, Valarie McClain, Meghan Zeller
Rally Day
At the beginning of each school year we hold a Rally Day worship service, which features a song by the Sunday School children, prayers for the ongoing Christian education within our congregation, the installation of our superintendent, teachers, and assistants, and the presentation of new Bibles to our 3rd graders.
Christmas Program
Each Christmas the children get dressed up in costume and retell the Old Testament promises of a Savior and the New Testament fulfillment of those promises, focusing especially on Saint Luke's Christmas Gospel. The Christmas story is intermingled with Christmas songs and carols.
Retreat
Each winter or early spring the children gather together for a Saturday VBS-style retreat. Learning sessions are intermingled with projects, songs, food, and fun. Past retreats focused on Samson, the Apostle Paul, and Martin Luther. Our next retreat ("Journey to the Cross") will take place on March 27, 2010 and feature interactive stations that teach of Jesus' last week, death, and resurrection.
Bolingbrook's Pathways Parade
Our children participate each year in Bolingbrook's annual Pathways Parade. The children help decorate our church's float and then ride on or walk beside our float during the parade route. Their hard work and dedication has earned them several trophies in the amateur youth float division:
- 2009: "On Broadway" (second place)
- 2008: "From Cornfields to the Emerald City" (first place)
- 2007: "A Parade of Dreams" (first place)
- 2006: "Through a Child's Eyes" (second place)
Catechesis
Catechesis means teaching the faith. In a sense every sermon and Bible study and Sunday School class is catechesis. Here at Divine Shepherd we also offer youth and adult classes that teach the foundational teachings of Holy Scripture.
Adult Catechesis (Instruction in the Christian Faith)
Those desiring to become members and receive the Lord's Supper here at Divine Shepherd are catechized in the Christian faith according to Holy Scripture and Luther's Small Catechism. Please contact Pastor for more information.
Youth Catechesis (Confirmation Class)
Those youth who wish to confess their baptismal faith publicly (in the Rite of Confirmation) are catechized in the chief articles of the Christian faith according to Holy Scripture and Luther's Small Catechism. Please contact Pastor for more information.
Youth Group
Our youth group is comprised of active junior-high and high school students. These dedicated youth meet regularly for Bible study, activities, munchies, and to plan various outings and service projects. All are welcome. Click here for more information.
VBS
A week-long Vacation Bible School (VBS) is held each summer for members and visitors alike. Sessions include Bible study, music, crafts, games, and food. We'd love your children to join ours in learning more about the Christian faith during this awesome week.
