A few weeks ago, we had the joy of baptizing a baby girl into our community, and as we did, all of us promised to do everything in our power to support her life in Christ. "Everything in our power" is a big promise, and one we take seriously!
We live that promise out every week as we welcome children into the life and worship of our church. Just like us, our kids need space to enter into wonder, rest, and refreshment, and we are all working together to create that space. So we smile rather than scowl at them as they make noise, move around, and ask questions. We sing "Jesus Loves Me" each week to remind them, and ourselves, of our simple, unchanging identity as God's beloved children (even if we feel a bit cheesy as we do!). And we remember that Jesus said that wiggly, curious children have something to teach us grownups about his kingdom (Mark 10:14-16).
For that reason, we will occasionally close our nursery and Atrium and welcome all children into the service with us for Family Sundays, when everyone young and old will worship and celebrate together. The first one will be this Sunday, Nov. 4, All Saints' Day. What a beautiful picture of the continuity of our faith throughout generations as we remember those who have died and worship alongside young children.
Family Sundays are listed on our church calendar, and will always be announced in Friday e-newsletters and our Sunday announcements.
And if you'd like to take another step toward fulfilling those baptismal promises, why not volunteer in our nursery? It's a fun and relaxing way to serve the youngest in our community, and we'll guide you through everything you need. Contact Amy!