Seven Springs Presbyterian Church

Children in Worship

But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.”

Matthew 19:14 (ESV)

Children Belong in the Church

At Seven Springs we believe that children are “a heritage from the LORD” (Psalm 127:3) and not a distraction from worship. The promise of the gospel is “for you and for your children” (Acts 2:39). The children of believers are members of the visible church, and they are called with their parents to the worship of God. The Westminster Confession teaches that the visible church “consists of all those throughout the world that profess the true religion; and of their children” (WCF 25.2).

For this reason we gladly welcome children in worship. They sing the same psalms and hymns, hear the same Word read and preached, and join in the same prayers as their parents. Over time, and by the Spirit’s blessing, the patterns of worship become part of who they are. Many of our older members can tell you they learned their faith sitting in these pews beside their parents and grandparents.

What Parents Can Expect

  • Worship together. Children of all ages are welcome to remain in the service with their families. A little noise is the sound of a church with a future.
  • A place to step out. Training room is available for parents who need a few minutes with an infant or toddler. Audio from the service is available in the room.
  • Sunday School. Classes for children (Infant–Younger Elementary) meet following the service, using “Show Me Jesus” from Great Commission Publications.
  • Catechism. Children are taught the Catechism for Young Children and the Westminster Shorter Catechism. Monthly Catechism Classes occur during our evening service on the second Sunday of the month.

Helping Your Children Worship

God gave children the vibrant energy that sometimes causes them to wiggle and make noise. They belong right here with God’s people, where you have so faithfully brought them.
Stick with it! Feel free to sit toward the front where it is easier for your little ones to see and hear what’s going on. They tire of seeing the backs of others’ heads. Quietly explain the parts of the service, and the actions of the pastor, elders, singers, etc. Sing the songs and participate in the prayers. Children learn how to worship by watching you.

Do not be discouraged if it feels like a struggle. You are teaching them that the worship of God matters, and the Lord blesses that faithfulness.

Child Saftey

The safety of the children entrusted to us is a sacred responsibility. All adults who serve in the nursery or in children’s classes are church members who have completed a background check and child-protection training. The Session has adopted a written child-protection policy, which is available to any parent on request.