Children Worship And Wonder

What is Children Worship & Wonder?

An exciting way of approaching faith formation with children is the best way to describe Children Worship & Wonder. In Children Worship & Wonder, children have the opportunity to hear Bible stories and form responses out of their own life experiences. They learn the meaning of church traditions and participate in worship practices.

Characteristics of programs like Children Worship & Wonder:

  • Respect of Children. This program recognizes children as spiritual beings, who already have a relationship with God. In Children Worship & Wonder children are not seen as empty vessels for us (adults) to fill with our understanding of God. Adults are guides who offer space, tools, and language which help children deepen their already existing relationship with God. In Children Worship & Wonder we trust, that given the opportunity, children will bring their own life experiences to the stories of God and will receive what they need.
  • Encouragement of Imagination. There is not enough time and space in today's world for children to use their wonderful imaginations. Television, videos, computer games rarely encourage children to call upon their own creative possibilities. There are too few places for children to learn about the gifts of quiet and solitude. Churches are uniquely equipped to offer these gifts.
  • Developmentally Appropriate. Children Worship & Wonder allows children to use all of their senses and motor skills. It includes lots of repetition and lots of ritual which children love.
  • Children Learn about God while Being in God's Presence. Children Worship & Wonder is worship. It is a chance for adults and children to worship together in a way that is meaningful for both.
  • Numbers do not Matter. This program can be done with one child or twenty children.

Beginning Fall 2012, First Christian is excited to launch Children Worship and Wonder! Children Worship and Wonder will be offered to children ages 3 through the 1st grade during the 11:00 service. We hope to be able to offer it at the 9:00 worship service as well, provided we are able to provide an adequate number of storytellers and greeters. To learn more, or to watch a video from Disciples Home Missions, please visit http://www.discipleshomemissions.org/pages/FCM-CWW