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Children's Chapel is a new ministry here at the Church of the Holy Communion. During our 9 O'clock Eucharist we provide a Children's Chapel during the second half of the service. Our hope is that families with small children will benefit from this effort.
Our Goals for Children's Chapel
*The target age range is above nursery age (4-5) and generally younger than confirmation age (11-12).
*This ministry is intended to help our families learn to worship together as a family for the entire service.
*It can be very helpful for guests that are new to liturgical worship. Families with small children unaccustomed to our beautiful traditions might need time to train their children.
There is much for the little ones to learn. This ministry is designed to give the kids a quick break followed by guided instruction. Again, our goal is for the whole family to worship together, so parents may wish to reincorporate the children once they make progress. We will also be sensitive to the Sunday School teachers. We don't want another session of Sunday School, so we will endeavor to make these chapels worshipful. The instruction will be at a child's pace and will focus on the Biblical and historical objects of worship. We then provide a short activity based upon the object lesson. This is intended to help the children remember the object lesson. The idea is to help children become active worshipers while learning the basics. Children's Chapel will provide a venue for them to practice our liturgy along with other kids. The kids will be active learners.
How To Participate
During the sermon hymn, parents may direct their small children to watch for the adult volunteers to signal the departure. The leader will advance a children's cross down the center aisle. They will turn and take the kids to the narthex.
After being blessed by one of the clergy, they are led to the Edman bldg. for an abbreviated and directed liturgy. The service will cover the Lord's prayer, Ten Commandments, the Beatitudes, Hymns for children, prayers for children, and a liturgical object lesson.
Finally a brief activity will reinforce the experience. When parents finish worship, their children will be waiting for them. Sunday School teachers can also take the kids. For safety reasons we will keep them inside until you pick them up.
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