It's a worship service designed just for kids, ages pre-school through second grade. This is a place for children to worship God in their own unique way, with music, messages, and activities that engage. This worship service aims to help kids grow in the Lord while growing up, to fulfill their God given purpose, and to give them a beginner's understanding of what happens in BIG church.
Parents bring children directly to the Fellowship Hall on Sunday mornings. Parents then return for their children immediately at the end of worship in the sanctuary.
We meet during 9:30 am worship service from September through July.
Children's Worship is team lead by group of Bethel volunteers.
(Simone Monique Barnes, Children's Ministry Director can be reached at bethelchildren [at] gmail [dot] com)
Frequently asked Questions:
Can children under the age of 3 attend Children's Worship?
Yes, but they must bring their own grownup who will stay with them for the duration of the worship service. Children's Worship is geared for children over the age of three who can follow directions, use the restroom on their own, and communicate with others. We strongly encourage families with young children to utilize the Parent Room within the sanctuary.
Does a child have to be a member of Bethel AME Church to attend Children's Worship?
No! We welcome visitors, members, regular attendees, and guests to participate in Children's Worship with us. Please be sure to leave your name and contact information with the staff, just in case your child needs you during worship (and so we know which grownup he/she belongs to).
Why do I have to register?
Whether your child attends one time or every time, we like to have a record of every child who participates in our ministry. This helps us to keep track of important things like food allergies and attendance. It also enables us to keep in touch with your child and his/her family, through post cards and cards in the mail. (What kid doesn't like to get mail?)
What's for snack?
Children are served a small, healthy snack during their worship time. (Most often fruit, goldfish crackers, animal crackers, or Teddy Grahams and a cup of water). Snacks are always nut-free, as we have children who have allergies. During our Birthday Party for Jesus children get to decorate and eat their own (nut-free) cupcakes.
Parents or guardians of special needs children should rely on their own judgement for what is best for their children. Children's worship is led by a very small staff of volunteers. If your child had behavioral, emotional, or physical needs, we welcome you to attend children's worship with your child.
All the youth worship together?
No. Youth in 3rd grade through 12th grade participate in Youth Worship (held across the street at the House of Hope) with other members of Bethel and ministerial staff, while children ages pre-school through second grade participate in Children's Worship in the Fellowship Hall. Children under 3 years old remain with their parents in the sanctuary or in the Parent Room within the sanctuary on the Walk Hill side of the church.
What are Youth Impact Sundays?
Youth Impact Sundays at Bethel are days when the youth of Bethel are greatly involved in the main worship service, serving as greeters, ushers, readers, choir, and more.
Who are the King's Kidz?
The King's Kidz is Bethel's children's choir (made up of all 3 to 7 year olds at Bethel). The children rehearse every week as a part of their normal Sunday worship schedule. They perform/minister to the congregation approximately once every other month, including Youth Impact Sundays and special occasions such as Christmas and Easter.
Can I volunteer?
Of course. We are always in need of help to lead worship, sing, set-up and break down the room, prep in advance for activities, and call parents, for examples. All worship leaders working directly with children are required to complete a volunteer background check form.
See available dates, assignments and sign up on VolunteerSpot.com
What's the difference between Church School and Children's Worship?
At this age group there is a lot of overlap in the approach, however, simply put, Church School is school. There are tests, assembly, classes, grade levels, and homework. Children's worship is a scaled down version of a traditional worship service.
What do you do in Children's Worship?
We praise God, listen to a message, sing, pray, and have announcements just like in the main sanctuary. Our 6 and 7 year olds serve a mini worship leaders by reading from Children's Bibles, helping to lead prayer and serving others in worship.
In addition, a short King'z Kidz rehearsal is held during service, to prepare children to sing in the main sanctuary during the offertory on Youth Impact Sundays. It is led by our Children's Music Director, Jessica Huber.
We also have bathroom and snack breaks.
The Order of Worship Service:
Welcome
Opening Prayer
Praise and Worship
Bethel Chant
Offering
Message
Activity
Bathroom Break
King'z Kidz Rehearsal
Snack
Closing Prayer
Please see the blog for calender updates and additional activity dates and times.
