|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
bringing your children to church!?
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Should you bring your children to church? Yes please! Children not only have a special place in Jesus' heart, they are very special to us here, too. At Emmanuel, we are committed to creating a church where everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, will feel both welcome and comfortable.
This page offers some thoughts, and practical suggestions, about ways in which you can help your children, and your family, to become part of the family of God. It's a great joy for me to welcome you, and your children, as you do so.
The opening part of our services are 'Family Worship' times when the whole church worships together before children go to Sunday school (except 'All Age Worship' services when families remain together for the whole service).
All children are encouraged to attend Sunday school (Parents are welcome to stay, for several weeks if necessary, until children are confident enough to stay on their own).
Our crèche is a comfortable and warm place for parents to take children if they become too lively during our services. Here you will be able to follow, through our large window, what is taking place in our worship area, as well as being able to listen to the service through our PA link.
We have several activities taking place throughout the week for parents with children. Please have a read through our welcome leaflet for further information. Also, please take the opportunity to speak with one of the members of our welcome team, or one of our stewards, who will be able to help you.
|
|
|
we couldn't possibly ...
Yes you could - you'll find lots of parents do.
We have plenty of room for buggies in our church foyer; crèche; and in the designated seats in our worship area.
but church isn't for babies and children!
Yes it is!
The church is God's family and we would be a poor family if babies and children weren't welcome. The sooner you get started the easier it will be. There is less for active toddlers to get used to if they start young - you will be surprised how quickly they will get used to being in "Gods House."
what will they get out of it?
Do your children understand all you say to them?
No, but they soon get the feel of it. In church, they will gradually learn the same way: by the sound; the songs; the smell; the feel of things; by the people they meet; by what they see you doing. They will learn as they do with everything else. Children, just as much as adults, need: a time to think; a time of quiet; a time to pray; a time to sing; a time to praise God; and a time to meet with others who think the same.
what if they let me down?
Don't be embarrassed.
Children have a more natural attitude than adults. They don't feel that Christianity needs a special voice or behaviour and they come to learn that grown-ups need 'special quiet' to pray & listen to God.
when shall we come?
Family worship at 10.45am is a good place to start, but you are welcome to attend any service at Emmanuel. Don't forget we have a special 'All Age Worship' service on the first Sunday of every month when children remain in church for the whole of the service. At other times during the month, children are invited to attend Sunday school. For those with younger children, our crèche is always available.
preaching and quiet times
Adults, as much as children, need times of quiet.
We take our preaching and teaching very seriously at Emmanuel and we like this to be a quiet time in the middle of our service. This allows adults (whilst the children are in Sunday school or the crèche) to be able to concentrate on the sermon and enjoy some quiet reflection and prayer afterwards. This usually lasts for about 45 minutes. Services of Communion involve the whole church family, so please take your children to the front of church to receive a blessing.
what shall we take?
Nobody can expect a small child to be still and quiet for an hour or so. Bringing some toys along to church can help to keep your child occupied.
Babies and Toddlers: Bring soft toys without bells, rattles or wind up wheels. Bring them a drink or a snack. Who knows, they may even go to sleep.
Two Years and Upwards: We have activity bags available, but why not create your own bag kept only for church? This way, they discover the contents afresh each time. Easier too, than trying to collect odd items in the Sunday morning rush. Put in slippers; books with pictures; scrap paper; pencils; crayons; dolls or teddies; a blanket; comics; or a quiet toy (There are also lots of lovely toys in the crèche!).
|
|
|
what else do I need to consider?
Sit near the end of the row, or in seats designated for buggies and children, so that your child can stand in the aisle to watch and sing. Encourage your child to take part in the service and explain to them what is going on: stand when everyone else does, sit, sing and so on. Remember to help older children to read from the service sheets or PowerPoint. Lots of these skills are things children learn when they start school. Don't worry if you feel you are paying more attention to the children than the service - it does get easier with time (most parents would tell you this). Should they want to go exploring, explain that you will take them at the end and keep your promise.
If they cry loudly, take them out and settle them, if you can, and, once they have calmed down, bring them in again. When you get to know people you will find us more than willing to help, especially if you have more than one child.
|
|
|
bringing your child to church is an act of worship in itself.
Bearing in mind that your aim is to integrate your child to become a member of God's family:
- We promise to make you, and your children, welcome.
- We aim to ensure that babies; children; teenagers; mums and dads; and older people can all enjoy their time in Emmanuel church.
We hope to get the balance right - please let us know if we don't!
|
|
|
don't be put off!
All children go through difficult phases so, please, keep trying. The church is for you, and for everyone.
|
|
|
CCopyright ©2010 Billericay & Little Burstead Team Ministry. Reg Charity No 1131650.
All rights reserved. Web site policy notice.
|
|
|
