During the middle weeks of each school term, St Andrew’s Church, Chinnor run an afterschool group for 5-8-year-olds and their parents and carers aiming to bridge the gap between the local St Andrews CE Primary school and the church.
St Andrew's church supports the provision of Open the Book and REInspired teaching in the school but the after school club provides a space for children and parents to explore faith in a more relaxed church setting. ChooseDay Church has been running since September 2018 as a space for fellowship between parents whilst a team of volunteers, including two retired teachers and two teaching assistants, read stories, run craft activities and serve squash and toast to the children.
The time is guided by the children where they have the option to choose their own activities. Some of these are linked to stories in the Bible and others are general toys and games. Each week there is a new theme linked to a Bible passage or festival in the Christian calendar. The time ends with a short time of worship including reflection, prayer, and a children's worship song. The volunteers read a story, act out a drama or the children watch a tv adaptation of the passage.
Margaret Poole reflects on the opportunities the group brings:
“The majority of families who come along are non-church goers, so this is their church just on a different day of the week. Many of the parents join in the worship and reflection time and the children take home their crafts which offers a great talking point for families. We are planting the seeds of faith in the young children and their parents as the missed generation of church.”
“Some of the children are still wanting to join in beyond the age of eight and mums are bringing along their pre-schoolers too which is really encouraging. We are looking at ways we can accommodate this by including the older children as helpers for the younger ones. In the future, we are aiming to develop support for the transition from primary to secondary school, to continue engaging with children and maintain that strong relationship with them as they grow in to teenagers and young adults.”
Children, Young People and Families ministry
Has this inspired you to think about starting a group for children in your church?
Our team of Discipleship Enablers support parishes in their engagement with children, young people and families. Working with the Disciples Together vision and strategy, the team have a heart and passion for this ministry.
Find out more and get in touch to learn how they can work with you and your church community in supporting, encouraging and nurturing the next generation. You can find the contact details on the children, young people & families page.