Faith Milestones
Milestone Ministry recognizes faith milestones in the life of Zion Lutheran members. These milestones always include faith events for parents + kids and special recognition during worship. Milestones include:
- 6th-Graders are invited to join Faith Foundations and receive a blessing.
- 7th-Graders are blessed as the Faith Foundations year begins.
- 8th-Graders learn what it means to created in the image of God.
- 9th-Graders are blessed as they begin one-on-one mentor meetings and receive a study Bible.
- 10th-Graders are confirmed on Reformation Sunday and receive prayer shawls at Confirmation.
- 12th-Graders are recognized on their high school graduation.
Faith Foundations
Faith Foundations (our formal confirmation programming) takes place through the 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th grades.
- 6th, 7th and 8th graders participate in weekly guided lessons during the school year focused on the Small Catechism, the Bible, and Lutheran Living on a three-year rotation.
- 9th graders complete a year of service projects, conversations with a faith mentor, and an independent faith capstone project. This is a creative, visual display that ties together what they have learned over their Confirmation years.
- Confirmation Sunday is held on Reformation Sunday of the 10th grade year.
SD Synod Youth Conference
Mark your calendars and get ready — the SD Synod Youth Conference is coming to Sioux Falls on July 31–August 1!
This two-day youth gathering will bring together students from across the synod for a meaningful, memorable experience packed with worship, breakout sessions, service opportunities, games, music, and much more!
We’re excited to share some preliminary details for this year’s gathering!
▪ Registration: Open to 2025-2026 school year 6-12 grade youth
▪ Cost: $25 per person
▪ Lodging: Stay overnight at welcoming, local churches in Sioux Falls
▪ Meals: 3 delicious meals included, along with snacks and water for
break times
It’s going to be a meaningful time of connection, conversation, and community. Mark your calendars, spread the word, start planning, and get excited! We can’t wait to gather together! If you plan to attend this event, please let Saundra know by Wednesday, May 27. The event’s theme is: Imagine.
Nashville Mission Trip
We are headed to Nashville in June to be God’s hands and feet in the world! There are various ways you can support us:
- Pray for us!
- Support one of our various fundraisers or give a financial donation to our trip. You can do so on our church giving page.
ELCA Youth Gathering
There will be another informational meeting on Sunday, June 7 at 10:30 AM in Saundra’s office for those interested in attending the ELCA Youth Gathering in Minneapolis next summer. We’ll talk about the current trip itinerary, changes in structure of the event that have been made, estimated cost, and beginning fundraising options. Be sure to attend (even if you’re not ready to commit yet)!
This experience is for youth in grades 8-12 as of the Fall 2026 school year. For more information on the ELCA Youth Gathering, please click here.
