All Age Services
We believe that adult Christians not only have something precious to share with our children, but also that children have so much that they can teach us about the love of God, faith in Jesus and the work of the Holy Spirit. If we take Jesus' words about children and the Kingdom of God seriously, then a shared pilgrimage of faith is a vital experience for adults and children alike, as we learn from each other how to be true disciples of Jesus Christ.
One of the keys to children coming to faith is having the opportunity to engage in the practices of faith. As worship is one of our main faith practices, the way we welcome and include children in worship is vitally important.
"If our church is a family how come we don't do more things together?"
- Child aged 5 years.
This guide is for those who are already exploring the benefits of an intergenerational journey within their faith communities, and are wanting to be more intentional. A collaborative resource produced at an Intergenerational Writers Retreat in November 2022.
An intergenerational church is one where all ages are working together towards the common goal of sharing and growing in faith.
When we create space for children to belong and to interact with teens and adults we give opportunity for relationships to develop and faith to be nurtured. These times of interacting may happen on Sundays but they may also occur at events during the week.
Forming relationships with children is the responsibility of all members of the church family not just CM leaders!
“ One major function of intergenerational life is to transmit the stories and promises which identify the family, so that each new generation has an inheritance that gives both identity and roots, purpose and vocation.”
Walter Brueggemann.
Imagine if everyone had someone who is journeying through life with them helping navigate the ups and downs and the realities of life. Someone who walks alongside just as Jesus walked with the two men on the road to Emmaus. This is the crucial role of a mentor or coach.
Moses replied, "We will all go--young and old, our sons and daughters, and our flocks and herds. We must all join together in celebrating a festival to the LORD."
Exodus 10:9
In this video clip Tammy Tolman talks about the role of a mentor and the opportunity churches have to provide children and teens with people who will journey with them as the navigate life and faith.