Welcome to God’s World

Each Sunday, we invite children in 3rd grade and under to explore Bible stories, experience the love of God, and share in the ministry of Jesus in a place we call “God’s World.”

God’s World is open from 10:15 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. every Sunday. While children of all ages are welcome in our worship services, children in preschool and younger may start the service in the nursery if they (and their parents) prefer. During most services where children are present, our minister or another adult will invite them down to the front of the sanctuary for a special children’s message. After the children’s message, a teacher will lead children in 3rd grade and below to God’s World for a hands-on experience related to the worship themes for the day. Children may also stay in church with their parents if they prefer. After the service, parents may collect their children from God’s World and hear all about the ways they experienced the love of God.

Older Children/Youth

For children older than 3rd grade, we invite full and active participation in the life of the church.

Acolytes. Even before they are in 3rd grade, children who feel comfortable with the responsibility can train to become acolytes, or candle lighters, for our worship services. Acolytes participate in the opening and closing of the worship service by lighting, and then extinguishing, the candles on the altar. In some special services, such as Easter Sunday and Christmas Eve, acolytes may be asked to perform more complex roles.

Greeters. Children who are comfortable with strangers are welcome to join the greeting team. Greeters welcome each person to worship, distribute bulletins, answer questions and give directions (to the restrooms, for example) to those who are new to the church.

Deacons. Older children and youth are also invited to train to become deacons and serve in more ways during worship. Deacons are responsible for preparing the communion elements before the worship service, and for receiving the offering and sharing the Lord’s Supper during the service.

Missionaries. Older children and youth are welcome to participate in any of the many service projects we have going on at the church at any given time. The God’s World class will sometimes contribute to these projects as well.

Teachers. High school and college students can volunteer to give the children’s message or teach the God’s World classes during worship. If you are interested in joining the teaching rotation for children’s church, contact Jeannie Largin.

Special Events

In addition to Sunday activities, we often have special programs for children. These include an Easter egg hunt and special surprises at the annual church-wide Christmas party. We will announce each event as it is planned. Volunteer helpers are always welcome at children’s events.

Families with children are also invited to participate in worship by lighting the candles of the Advent wreath in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

If you have questions about our children’s programs or would like to sign up to help, contact Jeannie Largin.