 | | Children's Sermons in Sunday Worship |
Why do we welcome little children in worship?
In our baptismal service, parents, sponsors and the whole congregation promise to bring children to worship. Bringing children into the sanctuary is something like allowing a child to eat at the dinner table. Even though their manners are far from elegant, it is done so those children will learn and feel a part of the family. Inviting children to participate is the most powerful way to teach them.
Children giggle, they poke, they ask questions and they swing their legs simply because they are children. Young children in worship may have bad moments, but it is their birthright as Christians to worship. Children learn by experience. This is how we learn to worship and become an active member of this church community. Children learn how to welcome by how they are welcomed.
What do little children learn in worship?
- It is important to experience and learn how to worship.
- They belong and are welcomed to this special company of people.
- The sights, sounds and feels of the sanctuary are good, though not always understandable.
- Something is expected of them in this place, and they may respond in song, prayer, and offering.
- They learn behaviors that respect the worship experience of others.
- Bringing a child to church can be a real exercise in aggravation. But then again, so are many other facets of parenting, and the rewards are well worth the effort. While we do not want our children to be disruptive or hamper the church’s worship, we must remember that baptized children are members of the church. Children should be among the worshiping people.
Suggestions for Parents
- Arrive in time to find a good place to sit. Make sure your children can see. Let them sit on the aisle or in the front pews.
- "Busy bags” filled with soft and quiet toys, books and games are available at both Sanctuary doors.
- Worship with your child, point out what is going on, help them follow along in the bulletin, pray together, sing together. Help them feel a part of the worshiping community.
- Call a “practice church” at home. Use a bulletin, say the Lord’s Prayer, stand up, sit down, and take turns saying a sermon.
- Decide on a cue that will let children know when to settle down.
- We have a safe and sunny nursery. Your children are welcome for part or all of the service. You will find the nursery on the same floor as the Sanctuary. It is at the parking lot end of the hall.
- Many parents place their children in the nursery until communion time and then bring them in to worship.
Suggestions for other Adults
Express joy at having children worship with you. Send an occasional smile or nod in their direction.
Give prayers and thanks to God for a child’s presence.
Help parents of small children by showing your appreciation and your support of our community’s children.
Invite parents to sit with you and assist them in teaching kids how to worship.
Enjoy and welcome each other, especially during the “Greeting of Peace.”
Find a young person before and after the service, make eye contact, introduce yourself and tell them you are glad to see them.
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