​Exciting Fall Updates for Children's Ministry

This fall will bring exciting changes in our Sunday morning ministry to children. And the exciting part is that ALL of us get to be a part, whether you are a parent, a youth, or someone without children.

We want every child to experience and to know that All Saints is their church, their community, and that they are a valued, integral part of this wonderful place. With these values in mind, a few key shifts will take place on Sunday mornings. First, children will be given the opportunity and encouraged to participate more fully in worship services through serving in a variety of roles. Also, careful thought will be given to consider if there are ways to make services more approachable for children to increase their engagement. Since kids will be playing more active roles, they will remain in the services until after the reading of the Gospel, right before the sermon. They will be released to the Parish Hall for a special time of Bible lesson, discussion, and prayer (~ 20-25 min). After this they will return to the service at the Peace, and experience communion and the remainder of the service with their parents.

Now here is the fun part... EVERYONE is needed! We need you to encourage kiddos, for example when they usher, read, or are part of the processional. It might not always be perfect, but it will always be wonderful! We need some of you to be willing to be a storyteller (scripts provided), or an assistant leader once a quarter, or more often if you are available. We also will enrich the current nursery program by adding a Bible story time, songs, and an activity. Volunteers are needed to help launch this program for our precious toddlers/ pre-k.

Why are we making these changes? There are 2 main reasons:

1. To help our children grow to love God, each other, their church community, and the greater community.

2. To ensure that no one gets burned out by having sole responsibility for the children's ministry.

We all get to invest in the next generation! How exciting! It really does take a village!

Janet Cotton will be coordinating volunteers and facilitating details. She comes to this role having lead a large Children's Ministry with 200 volunteers. She has a B.A. in psychology and sociology, as well as the equivalent of Master's level training in Spiritual Direction and Discipleship from George Fox and over 40 years of pastoral ministry.

Many people are needed to contribute a small role on a limited rotation basis. If you are interested, contact Janet via email, janetpcotton@gmail.com, text or call 503-913-8178, or reach out to her on a Sunday morning at church.

We are excited for what this fall holds for our parish and its youngest members.

Photo of our children helping in the Outdoor Service this last Sunday.