At St. Paul’s, worship is for the whole family. While childcare is available in our nursery for all Sunday morning services, we welcome children of all ages at all worship services. Because participation in worship leadership gives children a chance to serve others and gain confidence in their place as members of the Body of Christ, we encourage kids to get involved! In the book of Mark, we hear from Jesus...
People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.’ And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them. (Mark 10:13-16, NRSV)
As we are in the middle of summer, the Family Ministry Team is excited to offer a special surprise: a free pizza delivery to your home! We would be thrilled to visit your family, deliver a delicious pizza, and spend a few moments with your family.
Choose from one of the available dates and time slots.
Submit your form and wait for a confirmation from us.
Dates: July 29th and August 5th.
Please let us know if you don't see a date or time that works for your family.
We can't wait to see your family and share some summer joy. Thank you for being a part of our church community. Your family means the world to us, and we're excited to make this summer memorable together.
The Family Ministry Teams of Lovely Lane and St. Paul’s have partnered to host a free swim night at Ellis Pool (2000 Ellis Blvd NW, Cedar Rapids). The event will take place Saturday, August 24, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, and all ages are welcome. Children 12 years old and under must have a parent or guardian with them. The cost of this intergenerational event is completely free!
Kids Bible Buddy
We have heard from several families how much fun their child has had with their Bible buddy so far! Continue to share those stories and pictures if you have them with us. Remember to also turn in your Bible reading tracker to Becca Nims for a fun prize throughout the summer!
If your child still needs to receive a buddy, please let Becca know. We want every child to have the opportunity to participate in this program!
Seeking Volunteers for Neighborhood Meal Program
The Be Healthy. Be Green. (BHBG) committee is inviting St. Paul's children, youth, and families to join its Green Clean-up team. Volunteers are needed for the summer Neighborhood Meal Program, offering a flexible commitment from 11:30 am to about 1:30 pm on weekdays through August 16th. This is a family-friendly activity that provides comprehensive training and welcomes volunteers of all age groups. For more information or to volunteer, please contact Amy Bruner.
Children can and do encounter Jesus in worship, just as adults do. They hear God’s word in the reading of scripture and in a children’s message designed for young ears and eager minds. They share in God’s grace and forgiveness as we share in Holy Communion. They celebrate and welcome new members into the body of Christ in their participation in Holy Baptism. They lift their joyful voices in songs and hymns of praise. They pray as part of the community of the faithful. In all of these things, children participate alongside adults in our faith family.
Worship is an important place for all of us, including children, to experience God’s grace, learn how to give thanks to God and grow in relationship with God. The ritual of worship has been a historic and primary means of passing on the faith throughout the ages. Ritual is also a primary method of learning for young children. Children and worship, therefore, go together beautifully! Worship is a place where ritual is available and welcoming, week after week, to connect us with God and a faith family. Children can find a sense of identity and belonging in the ritual of worship and are sent to use their hands and feet to share the love of Jesus with the world.
Parents, grandparents and other caregivers...
We wish to offer you grace as you teach the children in your family how to worship. The pastors, staff and congregation are here to support you as you raise children in the faith. You can help us say, “Welcome,” to your children by...
Making worship a priority in your child’s life.
Modeling the faith life you want your children to have by making worship a priority in your life, too. Talk positively and joyfully about church so your children catch on that church is a good place to be.
If you have young children, sitting close to the front where they can see what is going on. Help them follow along in the bulletin.
Picking up a children’s worship bag from the ushers on your way into worship.
Not expecting too much from young children. It is okay if they cannot sit through an entire service or a sermon without a break in the hallway, especially if worship is new to them. Regular participation in worship will help set the expectations for what is acceptable worship behavior. Some of our families with toddlers and preschoolers have their children worship with them through the children’s sermon, go to the nursery during the readings and sermon and then come back to join the congregation at the time of the offering so they can participate in Holy Communion.
Volunteering as a family to be ushers or greeters so your child can participate as a worship leader. Children love to help and we love when they help lead worship. This will help instill in them a sense of belonging and identity within our faith family.
Encourage Children to participate as acolytes- Acolytes participate in worship leadership during our 9:00 am traditional worship service in the sanctuary, symbolically bringing the light of Christ into worship by lighting candles. Children are trained in the meaning and responsibilities of an acolyte at the end of 3rd grade Sunday School and can sign up to be on the schedule after that. Contact the church office at 319-363-2058 for more information about acolytes.
Our pastors love talking to children (and their families) before or after worship. If your child has questions about the service, encourage them to talk with us. We’re here to support you and them on your faith journeys.
St. Paul's Kids is where it all begins at St. Paul’s! Every Sunday at 10:20 am children age 4 through 5th grade learn about faith and begin their path to a relationship with God. Kids are introduced to Bible stories and explore how those stories fit with our Methodist traditions.
Wednesday nights are full of exciting spiritual formation activities for kids ages 4 years old - 5th grade at St. Paul’s. Children have many varied opportunities for faith formation, fellowship, and music—something for everyone. Come join the fun!
Drop off at 6:15 pm, activities at 6:30 pm. Join the fun!
Meet our Director of Family Ministries
Welcome to Children's Ministries here at St. Paul's United Methodist Church. My name is Becca Nims; I am the Director of Family Ministries. Our desire in children's ministries is to foster an environment where children can be authentic and know they belong in God's family. Children are not just the church's future; they are the church of today! I look forward to getting the chance to meet you.
Questions?
If you have further questions about St. Paul's Kids ministries, click the button below and connect with us!