Beginning at the first stages of life, we desire to help the children at Firm Family Church to begin developing a faith that is real and friends that are true, so that they may think Biblically, live distinctively, and love like Jesus- to impact our world for Christ. To assist parents in pursuing this mission, we offer several options for families to choose from. Whether parents prefer for their children to attend worship together as a family, or in a class with their peers, it is our desire that each child feels welcomed and loved.
Psalm 127 declares “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.”
Phil Swingle
Children’s Ministry Director
phil@firmfamilychurch.org
Encouragement to parents of young children in the service
Relax! God put the wiggles and energy in children; please don’t feel like you need to suppress it in His house!
Quietly explain the parts (and reasons!) of the service to them such as introductions, announcements, worship, and teaching.
Sing the songs, pray, be attentive. Children learn to worship by copying you.
If older children have questions during any part of the service, write them down to answer later. This encourages engagement and curiosity!
If you have to leave the service with your child, feel free to do so, but please come back when possible. Children are welcome and wanted!
Realize that the way we welcome children in church directly affects how they view and respond to God, His church, and one another.
Encouragement to parents of young children in Childcare (ages 0-4)
Relax! Childcare is designed to be a safe, clean, fun and healthy place for your child during the service.
Use the time alone to worship God deeply, fill yourself with truth, and be prepared to face another week.
Take notes on parts of the service (a song you liked or a truth you learned) you can share with your children on the ride home or around the dinner table. This will also help you meditate on impactful parts of the service!
Communicate joy and excitement about church before and after the service; this will prepare them for when they join you in the service to view worship as a delight, not a duty.
Find ways to encourage and bless the childcare volunteers each Sunday (a note, coffee, snack, or even just a simple ‘thank you’).
Encouragement to parents of young children in Sunday School (ages 5-10)
Our Sunday School classroom is designed to be a place where elementary aged children can come to develop a faith that is true. Through a well-planned sequence of activities (songs, games, art, Bible lesson, Missionary story, and memory verses that all focus on the truth of the gospel) presented by our team of adults and teens, children learn how the Bible lesson applies to their lives.
Volunteering
If you have a heart for helping children grow in their faith and knowing they are loved, we would welcome you to complete a children’s ministry application. There are many opportunities to serve, and we would be happy to help you find the perfect fit. Email Phil with any questions.