Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come into his presence with singing." Psalm 100:1-2
God has asked adults and children alike to respond to the awesomeness of God through worship. We believe that the best way to teach our children to worship is by worshipping with them.
We offer many opportunities to teach our children as well as assist them in worshipping:
Worship bags: Bags containing materials designed to help children participate more fully in the worship service are located on a cart in the courtyard area just before you come into the Sanctuary. Each bag contains a young reader’s version of the bulletin, worksheets, and crayons.
Children's moment: During the 11:15 a.m. service all children are invited to come to the front for a talk with the minister. After the Children's Moment, children may return to their seats.
Children’s Choirs: Grade level choirs provide an opportunity for children to sing music appropriate for their age group. They are taught important skills that allow them to take an active part in leading worship on Sunday mornings. These choirs sing once a month.
The Lord's Supper Class: How do you know when your child is ready to participate in communion? The right time is different for each child. The Book of Order of the PC(USA) states that “invitation to the Lord’s Supper is extended to all who have been baptized ...Baptized children who are being nurtured and instructed in the significance of the invitation to the Table and the meaning of their response are invited to receive the Lord’s Supper, recognizing that their understanding of participation will vary according to their maturity”. (W-2.4011)
RPC offers a Sacrament of the Lord's Supper class for baptized children in first grade through fifth grade. One of our ministers meets with the parents to discuss learning about communion while another minister leads the children in learning about this sacrament. At the close of the afternoon, we gather together to practice communion. The following Sunday, the students participate in the worship service and receive communion for the first time.
We encourage all baptized children and parents to take this class at least once to increase your child's understanding of communion.
