Nurturing Kids

Kids matter. That's my basic starting point when it comes to kids and church. And also the words of Jesus, who shook things up by saying things like 'Let the little kids come to me and don't stop them' (Mark 10:13-16) and 'Unless you change and become like a little kids then you won't ever enter the kingdom of heaven.' (Matthew 18:2)

I'm not a specialist children's worker, and we don't have a children's worker at St Denys. We do have some amazingly committed volunteers who are thoughtful, creative, committed and reliable. That makes a huge difference and I am immensely grateful to them.

But we believe kids make life richer for the whole church. And also that multi-generational connections are precious. And that parents and carers need supporting. And that small actions and intentions make a significant difference. And that everyone has a shared responsibilitye keeping kids safe.

I recognise that planning and resourcing kids ministry can be daunting and draining and sometimes disheartening. Especially when people don't turn up or you haven't got enough volunteers. I also recognise that noise, fidgetting and randomness are all part of ministry with kids, and that can be unsettling for some.

I am starting by offering you some blogs based on our well-established and well-loved Drumbeats group, with resources to help you run a group for under-fives and their carers. I plan to add more blogs with more resources for nurturing kids, so keep an eye out. 

But in the meantime, may you be encouraged by the small, safe, random and spirit-filled moments in your church life in which kids play are part.

Blessings

Sera