BRING THE CHILDREN

TO CHURCH

2026 EDITION

From Your Pastor's Heart.

A Message to the St. Philip’s Family

Two questions continue to be asked:

What is being done to bring young people back into the church?

and

Are there going to be other kids like me at church for Sunday School?

These questions matter deeply. We want every child, youth, and family who walks through our doors to experience joy, belonging, and spiritual growth at St. Philip’s.

Here is how we are responding in 2026:

Children and Youth Faith Formation!

What about the PrayGround?

The PrayGround continues to be one of the most joyful parts of our worship space. Located in the sanctuary, it offers children a place to worship in ways that match their developmental needs.

The PrayGround includes soft seating, quiet activities, sensory tools, and worship materials that help children stay engaged while remaining part of the gathered community. The PrayGround reminds us that children’s presence is not a distraction—it is a blessing.

In our Pray Ground you will find age-appropriate worship materials and tools that will help keep them engaged in what is happening — materials such as children’s Bibles and books, coloring/drawing materials,

soft toys, Children's Worship Bulletins and items related to

the scripture theme.

What about Sunday School?

Sunday School continues every 1st and 3rd Sunday, immediately following Soul Fire Circle. All school‑aged children are welcome to attend and will return in time to receive Communion with their families.

Jesus loved to be with children, so we are thrilled to use The BIG Way of Love for Kids Curriculum in our Sunday School ministry. This creative resource uses playing cards and activities to help our children grow into the BIG, beloved children of God they were created to be.

The BIG Way of Love for Kids is inspired by the Way of Love, a rule of life built around seven spiritual practices that help us all look, live, and love more like Jesus. The cards guide children to explore Bible stories, listen, pray, learn, and practice their faith in everyday life. Because Jesus meets us everywhere we go, this resource is a perfect fit for our Sunday School.

Remember — we’re never too old or too young to walk

the Way of Love with Jesus.

What about opportunities

to serve and

participate in Worship?

Children and youth are invited to take their place as leaders in worship. Serving in church helps young people grow in confidence, deepen their faith, and understand that they are vital members of the Body of Christ.

At St. Philip’s, we joyfully welcome children and youth into a variety of worship roles:

Ushers — greeting worshipers, offering hospitality, and helping the congregation feel at home.
Greeters — welcoming people at the door with warmth and joy, showing that St. Philip’s is a place of belonging.
Gift Bearers — carrying the bread and wine to the altar, reminding us that all gifts come from God and are offered back in thanksgiving.
Lectors — reading Scripture during worship, helping the congregation hear God’s Word proclaimed through young voices.
Acolytes — assisting at the altar, carrying the cross, lighting candles, and helping lead the congregation in worship.

These roles teach responsibility, reverence, and leadership. They also help our young people see themselves as active participants in the life of the church—not just observers. When children serve, they learn that worship is something we do together, and that their presence strengthens the whole community.

We encourage families to talk with their children about serving and to let us know where their gifts and interests may be leading them. There is a place for every child at St. Philip’s.

What about Soul Fire Circle?

We continue with Soul Fire Circle on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of each month. On these Sundays, the Gospel will often come from God’s Word, My Voice: A Lectionary for Children, a Scripture resource written in language that helps children hear and understand the Good News with clarity and joy.

After the Gospel, our children gather for a sacred time of ritual, wonder, storytelling, and prayer.

Soul Fire Circle is designed to help children encounter God in ways that honor their imagination, curiosity, and spiritual depth.

During this time, children explore Scripture through movement, music, sacred objects, and guided reflection. They learn to pray with their bodies, listen with their hearts, and recognize God’s presence in everyday life. Soul Fire Circle helps our children know that they belong fully in worship and in the life of the church.

After Soul Fire Circle, children join our Sunday School teachers for formation, activities, and fellowship.

Practical Steps for Faith Formation for us ALL !!

Daily Devotions: Set aside time each day for family devotions. Read a Bible story, pray together, and discuss its meaning.

Faith in Action: Involve your children in community and church service projects. Show them how faith is lived out through acts of service, kindness and justice.

Symbols and Reminders: Just as the scripture suggests tying commandments on hands and foreheads, use visual reminders in your home. Display scripture verses, create a prayer corner, or use faith-based crafts to engage children.

And now, the most important part…

BRING THE CHILDREN AND YOUTH TO CHURCH

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me,” and he meant it.

We welcome ALL children — wiggles, giggles, cries, questions, and boundless energy — for the entire service. If you or your child need a break, the nursery is available, but please come back. You know your children best, and we trust your judgment.

Bring your children, grandchildren, godchildren, nieces, nephews, and neighbors. Immerse their lives in the Word of God. Even if they lie on

the floor, need goldfish and crayons, or run up the aisle to be with

Rev. Marlene (she loves that by the way) — it is all holy.

Let them see you worship. Let them see you pray. Let them see you running toward Jesus. The world will not teach them these things.

We will.

Teaching our children is a sacred responsibility. We must do it well, with love, truth, and intention. St. Philip’s is committed to being a place where children feel welcomed, loved, and encouraged in their faith journey — and where parents and grandparents feel supported.

Bring your children to church this Sunday.

Let’s continue building a church where young people know they belong.

Tips for Worship at St. Philip’s for Families

Pick up Children’s Worship Bulletins and coloring pages from the PrayGround.
Relax — God put the wiggle in children.
Sit toward the front or in the PrayGround so children can see.
Explain parts of the service to help them understand.
Sing, pray, and respond — children learn by watching you.
Step out if needed — the nursery is available — but please come back.
Remember: how we welcome children shapes how they experience God.

To the members of the parish…

Children are a gift to our church, and the presence of families in worship strengthens the whole Body of Christ. As a community, we all share in the joyful work of welcoming, supporting, and encouraging parents, grandparents, and caregivers.

A smile of encouragement and a spirit of non‑judgment are always welcome to parents with small, active children. Your warmth communicates that their children belong here — fully and joyfully.

If you see a parent or grandparent struggling, lend a helping hand. Offer to sit nearby, pick up a dropped toy, help gather materials, or simply whisper, “You’re doing great.” Sometimes caregivers just need a moment to breathe, pray, or re‑center, and your kindness can make all the difference.

Remember: when we support families, we strengthen our worship. When we welcome children, we welcome Christ himself.

SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS

AND HELPERS NEEDED

Our Sunday School is growing, and we need caring, committed adults to help nurture the faith of our children.

If you feel called to teach, to encourage, to listen, or simply to be present with our young people, there is a place for you in this ministry.

We are seeking Sunday School Teachers and Helpers who can offer love, patience, creativity, and support as our children learn to walk the Way of Love.

Please reach out to the Parish Administrator or Rev. Marlene if you are interested in serving. Your gifts can make a lasting difference in the lives of our children.