The Holy Playground Initiative
The Holy Playground exists to accompany congregations of the South Dakota Synod as they create spaces where children don’t just watch worship happen—they belong in it. Here, the youngest voices join the chorus of prayer, song, and fellowship right alongside everyone else.
Why This Matters
- “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me.” (Mark 9)
- Children have always been central to God’s story—from asking questions at the Passover table (Exodus 12) to shaping the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12).
- In our Lutheran tradition, baptized children aren’t “future members”—they’re full members now, with gifts to share today.
The Holy Playground Cohort 2026
Ready to Play? Click here to apply now!
Have more questions? Join us for “Wanna Play?” via Zoom – an open-house type gathering where Pr Renae will be available to answer questions, tell you more about what to expect and help you dream about what this could mean for your congregation. Session One: Tuesday, Oct 7 12:00 – 1:00pm CT (11:00am – 12:00pm MT) and Session Two: Thursday, Oct 9 6:00 – 7:00pm CT (5:00 – 6:00pm MT)
We’re gathering a group of 20–30 congregations across the South Dakota Synod with the goal of strengthening connections in intergenerational worship. Together, we’ll create spaces where every generation—especially children ages 0–10—can participate fully in worship, prayer, service, and fellowship.
Commitment:
- January–December 2026 participation
- Monthly online gatherings for training, storytelling, and support
- An in-person retreat in April 24-25, 2026 – and a follow-up one in the fall.
- Ongoing coaching
What You’ll Do
- Join other congregations to swap ideas like kids trading treasures on the playground
- Learn ways to make worship a true all-ages gathering
- Engage in “holy experiments” in your own setting
Apply for sub-award funding to try creative ideas that fit your unique community
- Share your stories and learn from others
- Build lasting intergenerational connections in your congregation
Application Timeline
Applications are due by December 15, 2025
Click here for FAQ’s about the cohort process
Click here to APPLY NOW!
BONUS!
Be one of the first 30 congregations to apply to be part of the 2026 cohort prior to Oct 31 – and you will receive information on how to receive $500 for a mini-experiment to complete before the end of 2025.
The only reporting requirement? Send in 3 pictures and 3 captions by December 31, 2025.
Get Started
Before applying, help us learn what’s happening in your congregation by completing our survey. Your input will shape the way we walk together in the year ahead!
(Fill out the survey by October 15 for a chance at a $50 Amazon gift card!)