In the Kids\’ Ministry world, the question of Children’s Worship is almost as controversial as "What style of music does your church use?"
I know as a kid, I would have loved the option of Children’s Worship. But then again, that was during the "children should be seen and not heard" era. Services in the small church I attended were long, boring, and often LOUD depending on the preacher’s passion that morning. Songs were sung straight from the hymnal accompanied by an organ – at a slow and deliberate pace so as to stretch out each and every word in a slow, southern style. And let’s not even talk about the confusing Invitation at the end!
Today’s parents seem more demanding of churches than they were in the past. I\’m not sure if it’s on behalf of their kids or for themselves. Some would argue that Children’s Church helps kids worship at their level of understanding. Others would maintain that the real purpose is that parents don\’t want to deal with their kids so they can worship in peace. Still others reason that children need to learn how to worship as they watch and participate with their parents in "Big Church."
You may feel one way about this question, but are serving with a pastor who feels another way. Stand on your own convictions or keep your job? That’s gotta be hard — I\’m just sayin\’!
I\’m not sure that there is a definite right or wrong answer and frankly, I do see both sides of the issue. This is your chance to share, vent, get on your soapbox — what’s YOUR opinion? Let us know!
I am a leader for a church’s children worship. We have a loud, fun way of worshipping with our kids. I like a traditional setting for my personal worship. The curriclum we use is Worship Kidstyle. The theme song is WHOA! The kids love that song and I think it speaks a lot of truth to the kids. It says “We’re not too young and we’re not second best!” It goes on to talk about how they can worship Kidstyle. I also think kids need to experience “grown up” worship. On one Sunday a quarter, the kids go to worship with their parents. I think this provides a good balance.
My answer a couple months ago would’ve been childrens church – We don’t have it but I have a 5 yr old, 4 yr old and 2 1/2 yr old. The youngest will be in the nursery till she’s 3. Church is tough for me!! Then I read a book – Parenting in the Pew (guiding your children into the joy of worship) by Robbie Castleman. Let me tell you – WOW the opportunity to have kids participate in worship with you is amazing – A TON of work – I’ve just started this and I know it will get easier but I am sooo excited!!! But if you do have a children’s church that’s focus is what it’s supposed to be and not just babysitting then I think that’s great – but this is another area where I’m wondering if parents need to step up and teach their children rather than relying on the church.