Children
in Worship
Jesus said, "Let the little children come
to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs
to such as these."
Jesus commanded His disciples that children as well as adults
were to be allowed to come and offer him worship. The children
are a welcome and integral part of our community worship.
We offer several "Children-friendly"
opportunities in our congregational worship.
Children's Worship Bulletin: This bulletin
follows the service order, but is easy for kids to follow with
icons to indicate each type of worship activity. Please pick
up a children's bulletin from the ushers.
Children's Sermon: Children are invited
to the front of the church to hear a proclamation of the Word
given specifically for them. This also gives our church family
an opportunity to see and value our young ones.
Children's Offering: As the children come
forward for the sermon, they are invited to bring an offering.
The children's offering supports local food pantries. Parents
are encouraged to teach children about setting aside part of
their allowance or provide the kids some money for this ministry.
Children's Worship Bags: have activities
for kids. Bags are found on a rack in the narthex.
Suggestions for engaging children in community worship:
Children are encouraged to participate fully, not only in special
moments designed for them like a children's sermon, but in all
the prayers and songs and actions that make up the worship service.
Children should participate consciously. Explain to the children
what each action of worship means and why it is done.
Children should participate actively. Children are invited to
stand, move, listen, speak, and-of course-sing!
"Children should be viewed as full participants not only
for their sake, but for ours. Children have gifts to give from
which we need to learn: a gift of faith, a gift of questioning,
a gift of wonder, as well as loyalty, honesty, and trust. Of
these virtues, our children may be among the best teachers we
have."
(Adapted from "A New Vision for Children
in the Worshiping Community" in A Child Shall Lead: Children
in Worship, p. 9).
