One Sunday over the summer, my four-year-old son decided to stay in the service for the sermon rather than go to children’s church. I had a feeling he didn’t know what he was getting into, but I had no idea how right I was. A few minutes into the preaching, I heard him talking to his brothers. Leaning over, I whispered, “Please be quiet. There’s no talking during the sermon.” He looked at me, confusion written all over his face, and whispered back, “Then why is Pastor Jordan talking?” 

In that moment it hit me—he had been to church nearly every Sunday of his life, but he didn’t understand what a sermon was. I whispered a brief explanation and, seeming satisfied, he sat through the rest (mostly) quiet—though not very still. 

Kids will pick up a lot just by being at church, but to help them really understand what’s going on and invite them to be a part, we as adults have an active role to play. In her recent article, “25 Tiny Ways to Welcome Kids in Church,” Megan Hill reminds us, “Just like adults, kids in the church flourish when they are known, loved, served, and engaged. And it often doesn’t take much.”

Maybe it’s sharing a mint or inviting them to help you pass out bulletins. Maybe it’s explaining why the pastor gets to talk during the sermon. Check out Megan’s list of ideas and look for a child to welcome this Sunday.  

Winfree Brisley

P.S. Megan Hill’s article is for adults, but she’s also written a new book for children called Meg Is Not Alone. Based on her own experience being left at church as a child, she helps kids see what it means to be part of a church community where members love and care for one another. Grab a copy as a Christmas gift for your child or take a few with you to church to share with kids you’d like to welcome!