Children in Church

Celebrating Children at St Matthew's

To the Parents of our young children. may we suggest:

Relax! God put the wiggle in the children; don't feel you have to suppress it in God's house. All are Welcome.

Perhaps sit towards the front, where it is easier for small children to see and hear what is going on. Otherwise, they may soon get tired of seeing the backs of grown-up's heads. 

Quietly explain what is happening within the service. it's good to encourage our children's curiosity.

Sing the hymns, pray and join in the responses. Children can learn by copying parents.

If you need to leave the service with your child, feel free to do so - you can find comfortable chairs and tables with activities :- toys and books in the glazed area at the back of church (the narthex); there is a toilet with baby changing facilities at the back.  Then please come back in.

Jesus said,  'Let the children come to me.'

To the parents of slightly older children:

Also in the Narthex (at the back of church) we have the “Roots” work sheets and colouring pencils which correspond with the readings for the week's lessons. 

Please free to use these materials, but don't forget to bring your children back into the main body of church at a time that suits them and you -perhaps to join in the Eucharist (communion).