Worship is the central act of the gathered community of God and the worship experience is essential for the formation of the identity as people of God.  Children are, by their baptism, members of the people of God and at PCPC we believe children are welcome to worship with their faith family.  We believe that in worship the children learn not only the content of our faith, but also the feelings, nuances, and transcendent meanings are communicated through attendance and participation.

Lucie Barber in Religious Education of Preschoolers supports the inclusion of children in worship by saying, “The worship service is where faith if experienced.  Children must have the opportunity to function side by side with adults in the worshiping community if they are to realize their gifts as members of the body.”

And parents play a key role in assisting the children learn the value of inclusive worship.  The Presbyterian Book of Order states, “The parent(s) or the one(s) exercising parental responsibility should teach their children about Christian worship by example, by providing for household worship, and by discussion and instruction…”

Children of all ages are welcome at worship at PCPC.   For children ages 3 through Kindergarten, following the Pastor’s Time with the Children, the Godly Play program shares age appropriate worship songs, liturgy, Bible stories, and study of the sacraments.

However, beginning at first grade, children are invited to remain for the entire worship service.  To assist parents and children in investigating the language, instruments, architecture, liturgy, and sacraments of worship, each child and his/her parent(s) or guardian(s) are invited to WELCOME TO WORSHIP classes.  Watch the bulletin for 2007 schedule.

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Over the course of the three weeks we will investigate all aspects of worship.  Please register your family by contacting Linda Beckham, DCE, at 253.6047 x 225 or by e-mail Linda@palmaceia.org.