Shiner Lutheran Church hosting “Fifth Quarter”, GIFT gatherings

Fall programming for Shiner youth began with energy and excitement. The church hosts a “Fifth Quarter” for all 7th-12th grade Shiner youth following home Comanche football games. Decorations, a DJ, dancing, and games galore fill the hours following the football game until 11:30 p.m. Around 80 youth participated in the initial Fifth Quarter and enjoyed pizza, snacks, and fellowship with adult supervision.
Shiner 7th-12th graders are invited to join the gathering after the next home game on September 30. Wednesday evenings at Shiner Lutheran are also filled with energy – this time with Pre-K 4 youngsters through adults. GIFT, Growing In Faith Together, began a new season on September 7. At 5:30 p.m. a meal is served to everyone following a rousing “camp style” table grace. At 6:00 p.m. the different age groups gather to spend time learning.
For the elementary ages, a hands-on nondenominational approach called Godly Play takes place, telling Bible stories, giving the children choices in responding to the story, and allowing children to question and wonder. Junior high gathers with Pastor Chris, focusing on confirming their faith. High schoolers join Mallory Volkmann, exploring together interactively their age-appropriate faith questions. Finally, Vicar Daniel Volkmann leads the adults for Bible study, finishing up the book of Jeremiah and soon to begin the study of Romans.
The evening ends with a closing that includes song, prayer, and the opportunity to support the Shiner Community Food Pantry with an offering; dismissal is promptly at 7 p.m.
Anyone interested is welcome to drop in and take some time on Wednesday evenings to share a meal, fellowship, and connect with the story of good news as the journey of Growing In Faith Together continues.