Why a Children's Worship Service? The spiritual life of children is of great importance to the family of Saint Timothy's. |  | We believe that one's life in Christ begins at baptism and, if the faith journey is well nurtured in childhood, it will continue to grow in richness and depth into adulthood. Therefore, we are especially committed to the spiritual development of our youngest members and, as a community of faith, seek to fulfill our promise to help them grow into the full stature of Christ. |
We are aware, however, that small children often have difficulty engaging in an adult worship service. To that end, Saint Timothy's offers the Children's Liturgy of the Word as an alternative, age-appropriate worship expression. This service nurtures the God-given spirituality of our children, teaching them the foundations of our faith and tradition, while addressing their developmental needs. Who is this worship service for? This liturgy is designed primarily for children ages preschool through second grade. However, children of any age who find this service enriching and worthwhile are welcome. Parents are welcome and encouraged to participate, but may wish to worship in the regular 9:00 service knowing that their child(ren) are experiencing an engaging church service designed for them.
When and where is the service? The Children’s Worship Service is held on Sunday mornings at 9:00, from Welcome Home Sunday (first Sunday after Labor Day) through Pentecost. Generally, there is no Children’s Liturgy on Palm Sunday, Easter Sunday, and the Sundays following Easter and Christmas. The Children’s Liturgy of the Word is held in the Overby Conference Room on the first floor of Grace House. Children and accompanying adults are invited to come directly to the conference room at 9:00. At the conclusion of the service (approximately 9:30) we process as a group to the main church building and join that congregation for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. What happens at the Children's Service? Episcopal worship is comprised of two parts: the Liturgy of the Word (Scripture, sermon, prayers, etc.) and the Liturgy of the Table (Holy Communion). The Children’s Liturgy of the Word includes all of the elements of the Prayer Book Liturgy of the Word: the reading of Holy Scripture, sermon, Creed, prayers, confession and exchange of the peace, offered specifically to and for children. Music is an important part of our worship, as we learn and express our faith through song. The service is intended to be highly interactive. Children are given a variety of ways and places to participate and serve in the worship service. How do children participate in the service? Children are given a variety of opportunities to participate as leaders in worship service. Children assist with the service in a variety of ways, including lighting candles, carrying the processional cross, sharing the prayers and collecting the offering. |
