Rally Sunday marks a time of transition at Austin’s St. Olaf Lutheran Church.

When the church congregates for its normal morning services Sunday, it will welcome in a fresh fall schedule, complete with festivities and a brand new addition: an all-ages program called Word and Service.

“It actually started way back last year,” said Ashley Corbett, director of children, youth and family at St. Olaf. “We did a focus group.”

The church council researched the possibility of having an even between worships once a week, and decided to give it a try. The program will offer religious education opportunities for older children and adults. “A big part of our move to this Word and Service is giving families the opportunity to worship together,” Corbett said, noting that includes older children. “We’ll have ‘Sunday school’ for elementary, middle and high school.”

Rally Sunday will encompass the services, plus carnival games and activities for young and old. And those who would rather sit out during the games and activities can still enjoy a cup of coffee and some time to visit with their fellow congregation members.

“Our decorating committee is following tradition and making donuts,” Corbett said.

Part of Rally Sunday is devoted to coming up with some future ideas for Word and Service. A few suggestions, like prayer shawl knitting, bible studies and service groups, are already on the horizon, Corbett said.

“We’ve heard some suggestions from folks,” she said.

Rally Sunday will also serve as a kickoff to regular Sunday school classes for young children. Youth will spend about 20 minutes getting to know their teachers and classmates and doing crafts. After, they will be invited up to join in on Rally Sunday.

About 400 people attend Sunday morning worships at St. Olaf. Corbett said Word and Service is open to everyone, and she encourages all to attend.

“We’re hoping that everyone stays after the first service, or those that plan to come to the second service come early,” she said.

The church will also start its new fall worship times on Sunday. Going forward, services will be held Sundays at 8:15 and 10:45 a.m.