Worship Resources

This resource equips congregations to include children in the full rhythm of Lutheran worship. Shaped by Gathering, Word, Meal, and Sending, you will find practical, ready-to-use resources—prayers, liturgical ideas, and guides.

    1. Welcome from Pastor Renae, Director of the Holy Playground Initiative

    2. Children's Guide to Lutheran Worship

    3. Pew card sample

    4. Activity Bags!

    5. Worship BINGO!

    6. Video: The Meaningful Inclusion of Children in Worship

    1. Gathering

    2. Confession Stones

    3. Confession Stones-Download

    4. Interactive "Thanksgiving at the Font" at Synod Assembly

    5. Thanksgiving at the Font (Synod Assembly 2025)

    6. Download Thanksgiving at the Font slides

    1. Word

    2. Intergenerational Preaching

    3. What is Puppet Ministry?

    4. Meet Pastor David Piper, Puppeteer

    5. 5 Steps to Start a Puppet Ministry

    6. Puppets at Piedmont Valley Lutheran

    7. Dry Bones Puppet Show example

    1. Meal

    2. The Lords Prayer in motion

    3. Prayer Cards

    4. Prayer Cards Idea

    5. Prayer Card--download

    1. Sending

    1. ELCA Faith Formation Site

    2. Welcome the Children

    3. Intentional Engagement of Kids

    4. How do we involve children in worship?

About this resource

  • Downloadable Tools
  • Video examples
  • Ready to go, today!

Resource Guide

Rev. Renae Boehmer

Director, Holy Playground Initiative

Pastor Renae Boehmer serves as the Director for the Holy Playground Initiative with the South Dakota Synod, ELCA, where she accompanies congregations across the state as they explore creative, developmentally informed ways to welcome children into intergenerational worship, prayer, fellowship and service opportunities. She brings deep pastoral heart and practical experience to this work, combining her gifts in ministry with a genuine curiosity about how congregations can grow in intergenerational life together. Before leading Holy Playground, Renae served in a variety of ministry roles including children’s ministry direction and pastoral leadership, grounded always in a deep appreciation for relationships, creativity, and faithful community. She is known for her warm approach, her joy in collaboration, and her excitement about listening and learning alongside congregations. Renae loves good conversation, imaginative ideas, and finding meaningful ways to make God’s love come alive in worship and everyday life. She is delighted to walk with the 2026 cohort and all who are joining this initiative, encouraging communities as they build practices that invite people of every age into deeper connection with God and one another.