Children in Worship

The Spiritual Growth Ministry Team is delighted to announce the rededication of an important component of our ministry to young children called Children in Worship. As Pastor Don received training back in seminary, the process and materials were used by Karla and others for many years with Crossroads children. Recently, eight members of the Spiritual Growth Team received training in the worship process from one of our Denominational trainers. We are currently updating our worship materials in preparation for a September 12, 2010 launch date.

Children in Worship is “an exciting way . . . children experience God while learning about God. It involves helping children worship in a special place apart from the worshiping congregation so they become able to worship meaningfully with the congregation.” (Stewart & Berryman, Young Children and Worship, 1989, p. 13). Beginning this fall, our children from about late age two through first grade will participate in Children in Worship after the Children’s Message during the 10:45 am service. The children’s worship space is planned for the conference/choir room. Each child will be intentionally greeted and welcomed into the worship service by a specially designated greeter who assesses the child’s readiness to enter worship. Once inside and seated, the worship leader uses the stories, parables and liturgical expressions of the Bible to create a sacred and intentional space for connection with God—through the power of the Holy Spirit. After the leader has used the materials to enter fully into the story and experience, each child is encouraged to individually experience the power of the sacred messages and symbols through creative play and further questions. Parents are expected to receive their child after the conclusion of corporate worship.

We ask each member of the Crossroads family—young and old—to prayerfully consider participating in Children in Worship as a greeter. The greeter serves to welcome the children into worship and help the children maintain focus on the worship process. With a large pool of greeters, your participation would be routine but only occasional, as is your preference—the schedule will be posted for the entire worship year. Please contact Maggie Sullivan or Michael Lubbers about sharing your time and talents in this important component of the spiritual formation of our children.

May God richly bless you and your family.

The Spiritual Growth Ministry Team