Families Are Invited to Explore Faith Together at Christ Church
Do you want to teach your children about God, but don’t quite know where to start? For the last several years (both before and after the Pandemic), Christ Episcopal Church in Bethany has embarked on a new way to help families grow in faith through their new Children’s Chapel, which supports parents in teaching their children about faith and spirituality. Rather than segregating children into separate Sunday School classes while parents attend services in church, families are invited to come to church and grow in faith together.
The Children’s Chapel is a special place for children, as full members of the church, to experience God’s love and to learn about Jesus and the Episcopal liturgy through stories, song and prayer.
The worship space of the church has a few special child-friendly spaces for children where they can feel at home during the service. And while the lessons of scripture are read, and the sermon is delivered, children from age 3 through 12 are welcome to take a short walk to the Parish House (parish hall) with their Sunday School teachers for Children’s Chapel for an age-appropriate exploration of the day’s readings along with songs and prayers. Because Children’s Chapel is based on that Sunday’s Scripture lessons, families all explore the same readings each week, giving them the opportunity to talk together later about what they heard that morning. Sometimes, parents go over to the Parish House to attend and enjoy Children’s Chapel right along with their children. After Children’s Chapel, the whole intergenerational community gathers back together again to share in the liturgy of the Eucharist.
Following the service, the parish enjoys time together with snacks and conversation during a lively social hour. Children are welcome to enjoy this fellowship.
Families report that taking part in the Christ Church community has provided support, friendship and new meaning in their lives. Children and parents alike have had the chance to learn about faith while sharing in worship, making friends, and discovering how God is calling us to make a real difference in our hurting world. The Episcopal Church is a place where ancient traditions nourish modern lives. We have deep, deep roots, but our spiritual faith is not set in stone.
Children’s Chapel takes place weekly at the 9:30 AM service.
