Then little children were being brought to him in order that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples spoke sternly to those who brought them; but Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.” – Matthew 19:13-14
In the font of the sanctuary of my home congregation, there is a large stained glass window depicting Jesus surrounded by children. From where my family sat each week at worship, this scene was directly in front of me. Today it remains one of the primary images that comes to mind when I recall worshipping in that place with my family. For me, it was a weekly reminder that, even as a child, I was welcome there.
Now I am reminded again of this wonderful promise of God’s love for all as I look at all of the ways in which we continue to welcome our children into our worship and activities here at Reformation.
We rejoice in the presence of our littlest members at worship. We encourage families to sit towards the front so that everyone is able to see the worship leaders and we continue to invite our young friends to join us each week for the Sermon on the Steps. Our new sanctuary play space also allows for little legs to move around while still being able to hear and see the music and prayers of worship.
Our Sunday School program continues to be a place where all are welcome and where stories of our faith are taught and learned – building a foundation for the lives God calls us to live in the world. Each week, our dedicated teachers remind us all of the wonderful stories of God’s love that we are blessed to know and remember every day.
As we prepare for this next year together in the life of the church, we are given countless ways to witness God welcoming us all as children of God. Together, we celebrate God’s love for us and continue to welcome even the smallest among us to be a part of this community we share at Reformation!
Blessings,
Pastor Alina