Kids are an important part of the Marineview community! We love having them among us and we welcome their energy, curiosity and creativity. Most Sundays, the children begin in the service with the adults, and after a short time of worship through song and prayer, are invited to their own special programs while the adults hear the sermon.
Kids ages 0-5
A bright space is provided for our youngest kids where they can play, create, and experience God’s love through the care of loving adults. A simple snack and a Bible story is woven into the morning’s activities.
When the weather is good, you can also find the group enjoying God’s creation as they adventure to our outdoor area to dig in the sand pit, climb the play structure, and follow their imaginations under the shade of the flowering tree. Children are also welcome to stay with their parents during the service.
Kids in Grades 1-7
Elementary-school-aged kids in grades 1 - 7 attend their own program where they can learn about life with Jesus in a way that’s fun and meaningful for them.
Leaders create a warm and engaging environment where children hear God’s story in Scripture, have the opportunity to ask questions, and explore the ways in which following Jesus makes a difference in their lives and in the world. Activities, games, crafts and snacks are a typical part of this older kids’ gathering.
Towards the end of the service, children rejoin the larger gathering to celebrate communion. We welcome children, in conversation with their parents, to participate in the Lord’s supper as they feel drawn.
Whole Church Sundays
On the third Sunday of every month, everyone remains together in our 10 am service for an intergenerational time of worship. In these services, the children experience and participate in all the parts of the worship liturgy (song, prayer, communion, benediction, etc.) in which they and their caregivers feel comfortable.
The sermon is often a little shorter and more visual, and there are also activity packs that the children can work on throughout the service. Sometimes kids help to lead by reading Scripture from the front, lighting the Advent candles, or singing on the worship team. Other times, artwork that the children have created in previous weeks is used visually in our service.
Being actively integrated into worship with the rest of the congregation is an important way kids come to see themselves as part of the whole people of God, experience the gift of taking communion, and learn from others what it means to be a life-long disciple in the way of Jesus.
The adults in the congregation are also encouraged by the presence of the children and the way that they engage in worship with openness and wholeheartedness.
Communion Brunches
On the first Sunday of every month, our 10 am gathering includes a potluck brunch.
This brunch is a highlight for many kids!
After the meal, the children are welcome to stay with their families for the reflection and discussion time, or venture upstairs to play and create under the care of an adult leader.