union avenue christian church

OFF the hook…continued

Of course, this problem is nothing new. The Church has always had difficulty discerning the proper role of youth and children, who are often eager to be involved but perhaps lack the tools and the maturity to know what to do with their enthusiasm. Thus, it falls to us, their “older” brothers and sisters in Christ, to help them discern their gifts and grow in their understanding of how they might use those gifts to serve the mission of the church. It has been my experience that this goal is best accomplished if youth and children experience the whole body of Christ, rather than always being segregated off into their own private activities and events. When our youth take part in intergenerational experiences of worship and fellowship, they come to a greater understanding of the diversity of the Church and they have the opportunity to be nurtured by a multitude of fellow Christians, each with their own gifts for ministry.

This summer, on the first Sunday of each month, we are inviting all of our children to be present for the entire worship service that we might experience this time together with God as one connected community of support, nurture and love. I encourage you to practice Christian hospitality by welcoming our youngest into our midst, sitting with them, singing with them, laughing with them, perhaps joining with them for the children's moment, and inviting them to share with you in the community of the spirit.

— Brian Kirk