Service Information
Children Are Welcome
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Acolyte/Usher Schedule
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| Children Are Welcome
Worship and Learning
Worship is the basic way people learn what it means to be a Christian. Children learn worship by worshiping with the parish family Sunday after Sunday. Children learn to participate in our family worship when they are encouraged by parents, friends and caring adults.- They learn that they belong to Christ and are welcome in His Church.
- They learn to know the Lord's Prayer and other parts of the worship service.
- They receive a treasure of memorable shared experiences of Christian community which will serve them as they grow.
- They are enriched by the beauty of music and art as expressions of praise and as human responses to God.
- They hear stories of the Bible, both read and interpreted, and begin to see Christian worship as one place where God may speak to them.
- They witness the drama of Baptism and Holy Communion as signs of God's love, kindness and mercy.
- They discover that they are valued as persons by God and, by us, the people of God.
Bringing children to worship may not always be easy, but it is an essential part of their growth in Christ and we are made complete by their presence. We welcome children to church - We need them! They are the future!
Some Helpful Hints for Parents- Most children enjoy sitting near the front of the church so that they can see the action of the service.
- Clue the children in as to what will happen next in the service. They like to know when to stand and sit.
- Children will learn to follow the service in the Bulletin and find hymns in the Hymnal with your help and guidance.
- Pre-school children are full of curiosity. Answer their questions in a "quiet whisper" so that they can be satisfied by answers, yet gain respect for quiet reverence.
- We provide crayons and church-oriented coloring sheets and pads for use in church by pre-school and early elementary age children to be used with parental supervision.
- Children are likely to make noises. Temporary distractions are inevitable. However, prolonged disruption requires attention that may be best offered outside the service, thereby making everyone feel more comfortable - child, parent and congregation. The lounge on the east side of the sanctuary is a welcome spot for any who would like soft chairs, proximity to a restroom, or space for little ones to move around.
- For parents who wish child care, it is available after the Children's Message at both services in downstairs classrooms, for children first grade and younger.
Some Helpful Hints for the Congregation- We express our joy at having children included in the worship service. They are not just the future of the church, they are also an important part of our parish family today!
- During worship services try to see the children around you as your own children and offer to help with their care.
- We are all teaching children how to worship by our actions. They watch what we do and imitate or follow our behavior. Our singing, praying, and attentiveness during the service will be observed by these young members of our congregation and will teach them about worship.
- Welcome children as you would be welcomed. Make an effort to include them in your conversations during Fellowship Time.
- Be open to their questions. Learn from them and share your faith with them.
- Focus on the gifts children bring: their trust, joy, and wonder in God. Reinforce their positive behaviors and be open to the ministry they offer you.
- Be supportive of parents who have made the effort to bring their children to worship services here. Communicate your understanding and appreciation.
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