A good news story - children's church

Our numbers at children's church are currently nowhere near what they have been in the past - we only have a handful on a regular basis - but we still believe that children’s ministry is good news and we always welcome them, however many there are. ‘Once upon’ a time (50 years ago) St John’s church children’s ministry was so big that they had to build a new hall to accommodate everyone. And if we look even further back (135 years ago), a special mission was held and children’s services were held on Sunday or Friday afternoons. The church was so full they had separate the boys and girls and had two services, of around 700 children each time. Throughout our history, (which has had its ups and downs for sure), St John’s has sought to make sure children are welcome.

How do we welcome children?

• The first Sunday of the month, we have a family service, where young and old have the opportunity to worship together. 

• The other Sundays of the month, we have a team of children’s workers who share the good news with the children by teaching them lovingly. Whether we learn about Moses or Paul, Elijah or Mary & Martha, we look at what God is doing for his people in the story, how he does the same for us - only better - in Jesus and how this good news can change the way we live. 

• We have a safety-conscious children’s ministry (you can access our Child Protection Policy here) that provides a context for friendship and for safe cross-generational relationships that are healthy for children and adults. 

• Children’s church is for the 5 - 12 year olds and the youth (age 13 - 18) have their own separate programme. We hope that, as we develop capacity, we can have at least two classes for the age groups in children's church.

We have provided a comfortable space at the back of the church for parents to sit with their toddlers and allow them to play quietly. Children of 4 years or younger should not be sent to children's church, but parents are welcome to take young children to the area at the back of the church to play.

Rules for back of the church:

• Children to be supervised by parents.

• Please play quietly - sound carries.

• Please pack away the toys when finished.

During school holidays, children’s church also takes a break, but children are always welcome in our services. Our next session will be on the 19th October and Brian is going to lead a session on clay and how this can be good news. They will enjoy getting their hands dirty that day. Thereafter, we will begin looking at some of the Christmas stories. 

One item of really good news that you have surely noticed already is that the fence has been completed. This project was prompted by a concern for the safety and security of our children, and indeed all who come to St John’s. Your generosity has resulted in thanksgiving to God - good news indeed.

Kathy de Smidt