Worshiping with Children

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Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:14)

God made children, and he loves them! Rest assured that he not only understands, but planned for them to have wiggles and giggles. Trust that if you persevere in your efforts to bring your children to God’s house he will bless you and them.

There are many benefits for a family that worships together. We also know from experience that it can be a challenging time for parents as they seek to “train up a child in the way he should go.” Below are some tips that we hope will be helpful to you as you lovingly guide your child to the Lord in worship. 

• Prepare a “church-only” bag containing unfamiliar items to be used only on Sundays. Consider quiet items such as picture books, a “quiet book” (practice with buttons, laces, snaps), colored pencils, etc., for this bag.
• Talk in advance about what your child can expect (e.g., songs, prayers, Bible readings, the sermon, standing and sitting at different times, etc.). Also talk about what you expect of your child (e.g., listening to the pastor, going up front for the children’s message, etc.). For younger children, practicing talking in a “church voice” (whisper) can be helpful.
• To help Sunday mornings go smoothly, assist your child in selecting clothes for church on Saturday.
• For babies and toddlers, prepare a drink in a leak-proof bottle/sippy cup. Bite-sized, non-sticky snacks may also help with restlessness.
• Pray with your child, asking God to help him/her be able to listen and worship in church. Pray for the pastor and all the people who help.
• Encourage your child to select a “Children’s Worship Bag” from the baskets in the narthex. These bags contain books and quiet activities for use during the Service. Bright yellow bags are intended for ages 2 and under.
• Obtain a Children’s Bulletin (pencil activities & puzzles for older children) from an usher.
• Sit where your child is able to see what is happening.

 “The promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” (Acts 2:39) 

• Help your child participate in the Service. Encourage him to hum or sing as he/she is able, to fold hands for prayers, go up front for the children’s message, etc.
• Please bring your children with you when you commune. They will receive a blessing as Communion is distributed.
• If your child becomes so restless as to disturb other worshipers, you may take your child to the church narthex (foyer) as a “cry room.” The narthex is equipped with speakers and windows so that you may follow along with the Service until your child is ready to return to the sanctuary.
• Loving, consistent teaching and discipline will show your child that church is a warm and caring place.

• Greet your neighbors and newcomers to the church. Greet the pastor at the door. Encourage your child to shake hands with the pastor or “give him a five.”
• Ask your child what one thing she remembers about the Service and discuss it. You may be surprised!

 [Jesus said:] “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me.” (Mark 9:37)

• Sunday Services are at 8:00 a.m. (traditional) and 10:45 a.m. (contemporary).
• Age-appropriate Sunday School classes are available for all ages at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday. There is no need to pre-register. Sunday School classes for children are held in the lower level, while other classes are held throughout the buildings. Please ask an usher or the pastor for specific class locations.
• Diaper changing tables are available in the restrooms on the main level and in the pre-school/family restroom on the lower level.

We are delighted to have children worship with us as they grow in Christ. We have many young families with children in our midst, and you may occasionally hear the “sounds of a growing church” throughout our buildings. We welcome you and your children to join us!