Children and Youth in the Advocate Community
Children and Youth are an integral and cherished part of the Church of the Advocate. We want to be a community in which the children grow up knowing that they are known and loved by the community and by God.
Children and Youth in Worship
We believe that our worship is the “work of the people”, or “liturgy”. As such, children and youth are encouraged to participate fully in the worship life of the community. And they are very welcome.
Our worship is informal and engaging. Children can see what is going on and feel that they are a part of it. Children and youth are also encouraged to take their part in leading worship as they are able – by reading scripture, lighting the candles, or carrying the Gospel Book. We conclude our liturgy each Sunday with a simple prayer that the children can easily learn and understand:
A Going Forth Prayer:
(Touching your ears)
God be in my hearing
(Touching your eyes)
God be in my seeing
(Touching your lips)
God be in my talking
(Touching your heart)
God be in my loving
(Touching each hand)
God be in my helping
(Making a circle with your hands)
in the world where I live
Amen.
In the Chapel
There is a kids area designated in the chapel beneath the Vision Window, and it is stocked with soft toys, books, crayons, and “Kids Bulletins” which feature simple games or exercises based on the readings of the day.
Christian Formation
September – June, a kids class based on the Godly Play curriculum is provided for kids kindergarten-ish through 5th grade on first and third Sundays during the first part of the worship service (the Liturgy of the Word).
At the same time, child care is provided for children age 1 – kindergarten-ish. Two trained child care providers are present every Sunday from 10:15 – 11:15.
Children are reunited with their parents and the rest of the congregation in time to participate in the Eucharist (Holy Communion) together.
Special intergenerational events are planned for a Saturday afternoon most liturgical seasons. The next Saturday event is:
The Blessing of the Animals on Saturday, October 3 (the eve of the Feast of St. Francis) at 4 PM. All are invited to bring their favorite animals (live or toy), to be blessed in the context of a short service of songs and prayers on the Advocate front lawn.
Pizza and Games Night, Saturday, October 24, 5:30 – 8 PM. Kids of all ages welcome! Bring your favorite game or enjoy the favorites of others. If you want to be in on the pizza order, call 919-219-4437 by 5 PM on 10/24.