Whoever welcomes one of these children in my name welcomes me
(Mark 9:36-37)

For as long as children have been part of families, they have also belonged to the family of God. From the times of Jewish festivals to the baptism of entire households in the early church, and from the long, hard pews of the Puritans to the padded pews of our own church, children have participated in the worship of God. Yet, children's ability to worship is easily overlooked amid the reality of wiggling, whispers, dropping hymnals, and shuffling feet.

Therefore, we at First Presbyterian Church would like to state clearly our intention to welcome children of all ages to the worship service. We are glad to have children in worship!  Do not feel that your child must be absolutely quiet and absolutely still.

Infants and toddlers We invite parents of to bring them into the sanctuary during worship. Babies are special symbols of the new life in Christ available to each one of us. Occasional disturbances are normal and to be expected. Rocking chairs are provided at the rear of the sanctuary to help comfort infants and toddlers. Also, a regularly staffed nursery is offered during Sunday School and worship services for those who would like child care (infants through kindergarten age).

Young children We invite them to worship with their families or other adult church friends. We encourage you to sit near the front of the sanctuary where children are able to see what is happening in the service. Occasional disturbances are normal and to be expected. A regularly staffed nursery is offered during Sunday School and worship services for those who would like child care (infants through kindergarten age).

School-age children are especially encouraged to join in worship as they are able: singing in the children’s choir, praying and singing with the congregation, handing out bulletins, etc. This is not to say that children are expected to act like little adults A child's leadership, faith, and participation in worship are distinct from an adult's and are often a unique blessing to the whole congregation. Children are not encouraged to be involved for the sake of entertaining the church, but to provide opportunities for children as well as adults to serve and worship God!

Children's bulletins These are provided for children of all ages, and worship bags are hanging on the worship bag tree at the rear of the sanctuary. These bags contain crayons, books and other items to occupy young children during the service.  A children's message from the minister, or others, is a regular part of the morning worship. After the children's message, young children may remain in worship or go to the nursery.

Adopted by FPC Session April 2009