Children and Worship

How much are children capable of doing in worship? That’s a good question. We should add one more question to it: How much do we expect our children
to do in worship? If we expect nothing, they’ll comply. If we expect that they can do much in worship, they will gladly respond. Children, like all of us, like being included.

When we take a child to a ball game, we spend time explaining what’s going on, what the rules are, and what to expect next. What we do in worship is profound and deserves explanation as well. Children love the drama that liturgy brings to their lives. It speaks to their imagination as well as their sense. It’s up to us to expect that they are a vital part of worship and encourage it.

Help active toddlers sit through as much of the worship service as they are able. If they become restless or disruptive, the Fellowship Hall is available for you to attend to their needs and still participate in worship. A nursery is available for children under the age of five during the worship service. Ask an usher for directions to the nursery.

Preparing children for worship…

• Give guidance beforehand about behavior expectations in God’s house.
• Make bathroom stops before the worship hour.
• Children’s bulletins, books and crayons are available on the fellowship hall table. Ask the ushers for assistance.
• Choose a seat where the child can see the liturgical actions.
• Teach and encourage simple responses such as “HEAR OUR PRAYER”, “AMEN”, etc.

Once you are in the pew…

• Arrive a few minutes early to acquaint you and your child with the service.
• Turn off cell phones, video games and other electronic devices.
• Encourage the use of a soft voice.
• Point out the colors and symbols in the sanctuary.
• Encourage your child to come to the Children’s Time before the Gospel
  reading.
• Encourage singing by helping or allowing the child to hold a hymnal.
• Encourage prayer posture when appropriate (head bowed, hands
  folded).
• Encourage standing at appropriate
  times.

Some content by permission from First Lutheran of International Falls, MN.