Making Worship Meaningful for
Children
When the Sunday morning worship service includes young
children who need to know that God loves them, congregations
may find it challenging. Young children can benefit greatly
from participation in Sunday morning worship. On the other
hand, children who become bored or noisy make it difficult
for others in the congregation to focus on their own
worship.
There is no simple answer; but to help make worship more
meaningful for young children in your congregation, try
these simple, practical suggestions:
For parents:
- Pack a "Sunday Only Bag" of soft, quiet toys that
aren't used the rest of the week.
- Encourage kids to use their 'soft voice."
- If your child is beyond the toddler stage, try
sitting (prepare yourself) RIGHT IN THE FRONT PEW.
Children will watch the color and movement at the altar
with great interest if they can see.
- Have your child hold the service book, and use your
finger to show them the appropriate part of the
service
- Teach your child the Lord's Prayer or creed at home.
Even early on, they like being able to recite it with
everyone else.
- After the service, talk with your child about what
they saw, heard or did during worship.
For people who aren't parenting now:
- Introduce yourself, speak to children each week,
smile at them!
- Every month or two, offer to have one of the children
sit with you. Show them the liturgy, and give parents a
chance to worship uninterrupted or to give more attention
to other siblings. The child will feel important to the
church, and you'll make a wonderful new friend.
- Pray regularly for children and their parents in your
congregation and in this world. They need every bit of
support we can give them.
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