GET READY THE EVENING BEFORE.
A Sunday school learner asked the priest if they were going to celebrate
the Eucharist. When the priest answered affirmatively, the child clapped
and said, "Oh, I've got to go and get ready!" Take a cue from
this child. Lay out your family's clothing the night before. Tell family
members that you will be attending church together in the morning. Explain
how church is different than other family activities and review some
church manners: running is permitted only outside the building, talking
in whispers close to ears, etc. Be sure everyone gets a good night's
sleep.
WE BELIEVE CHRISTIAN FORMATION
IS FOR ALL AGES. Even though our Lord did not separate people into
age-appropriate groups during the Sermon on the Mount the church has
learned this is an effective teaching tool. Sunday school classes begin
at 10:15 AM
for everyone age 3 through adult. A supervised
nursery is available
for infants and toddlers.
THERE IS ROOM FOR YOUR CHILDREN
IN OUR CHURCH FAMILY. You may want to sit with your children toward the front of the Nave.
These pews give the best view of the color and pageantry of our Christian
redemptive drama. They are also close to our side door which leads to
the Narthex should you need to exit the service.
BE AWARE OF TEACHABLE MOMENTS.
Use the time before the service begins to pray with your child. Ask
God to be in your hearts and minds as you worship; be sure to lift up
any concerns your family faces. Check out your surroundings: What color
are the altar hangings? Have you ever seen a cross like the one above
the altar? Remember to use "church voices."
JESUS IS HAVING A PARTY AND WE'RE
ALL INVITED! The Eucharistic Feast is a joyful celebration and a very
special meal. Remember to hug your child, or allow the child to sit
in your lap during the service. It is important for children to learn
that church is a warm and inviting place; we just use softer voices.
During the Eucharistic prayers you may wish to help your children learn
how to hold the Book of Common Prayer and the Hymnal. Beginning readers
are thrilled to find words they already know and match page numbers
with the information in the bulletin. Little ones enjoy making the Sign
of the Cross, holding hands during prayer, etc. Explain that Communion
is a special meal that Jesus has prepared for us because he loves us
and wants us to be fed. Review "Table manners" (how to receive
the bread and wine) and say a simple grace together before going up
to the altar rail.
BE RELAXED AND REALISTIC. God
did not design little ones to sit still for long periods of time, so
why should we expect it from them? Relax. A bag of quiet toys (stuffed
animals and seasonal books) is available in the Narthex for your convenience.
It is OK for shorter people to stand on the kneeler to get a better
look at the action going on, but never allow a child to stand on the
pew. By the time children reach elementary school they are old enough
to participate in the liturgy with your help. Rehearsing Eucharistic
responses and hymns at home is one way children can become familiar
with the order of worship. Copies of our Book of Common Prayer and Hymnal
are available for check-out in our Parish Library.
WHAT IF...Sometimes, in spite
of our best efforts, children become uncomfortable during the worship
service. Recognize this for what it is: a call for help; something is
wrong. Parents should never feel awkward or embarrassed about taking
care of children. It is more than OK to find out what the problem is
and try to fix it. Many times this can be done by simply moving to a
different part of the church for a few moments. Still, there may be
times when the best option is to leave the service early and return
home. This is OK too. We all have tough days. Remember Jesus came into
the world because we have a lot of them! St. Alban's will be waiting
to welcome you and your family back into the fold next week.