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One person describes children like this:
Children bring to worship a directness and simplicity of faith. They are spontaneous. They are receptive and have hope. They know how to show thankfulness and joy; indeed they show these feelings more wholly and wholeheartedly than do most adults. In many ways, children enrich the worship of the church (Ng& Thomas, 1981).
Another person said it this way:
Children’s sense of wonder is not yet jaded and they are prelogical in their reasoning processes. Adults, who understand so much, want to understand everything; but children are willing to stand unembarrassed before mystery. Adults all too often look upon the unexplained as weird, foolish, impossible; but children live in a world still bursting with miracles. What an advantage children have when it comes to the mysteries of our faith(Berglund,1994).
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In Worship:how can you
nurture your child in the sanctuary?
 | Enter God’s House with Thanksgiving! Share your joy about worship with our children. They will catch your enthusiasm. When you make introductions, always introduce your children and introduce yourself to other people’s children. Include them in your conversation to let them know they belong. Arrive early. During the time before the service you can help your child mark the pages of hymns. You may have time to read over the scripture or a hymn together. You may wish to point out special parts of the service, or spend time looking at the sanctuary -- the stained glass, the banners, the font and table. |
Help your children learn their part.
Help young children find their part in a hymn. Often there are repeating phrases that even non-readers are able to join in on. Practice the songs of our church (like the Gloria Patri) at home, during meal time or before bed. Practice prayers and responses at home.
Speak to your children in a whisper close to their ear.
They might copy you by responding in the same way. Be clear about the worship behavior you expect, and express it in a positive way (for example: “during hymns we stand up and sing.” or “this is a quiet time, we can talk after the next song”)
Share your bulletin with young readers and help them follow along.
Young children like to hold a book like the grown-ups they see around them. New readers will be pleased when they discover a phrase or response they already know by heart.
 | Be realistic about limits. Children grow into their ability to participate in worship. Little ones may only be able to stay through the “Chancel Steps” while elementary age children are old enough to participate in the liturgy with your help. You know your child best. Set realistic goals and praise children who meet them. |
