Case Study: Children’s Ministry at a Small, Welcoming Church

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Case Study: Children’s Ministry at a Small, Welcoming Church

At First Congregational Church in Greeley, Colorado (FCC), members believe that children are not just the future of the church—they are an integral part of the present. Their children’s ministry is designed to be inclusive, engaging, and spiritually enriching, creating a space where kids feel welcomed, valued, and inspired to grow in their faith. This case study explores the key elements of their successful children’s programs, highlighting what works, how to do it, and the people who make it happen.

Church Profile:

• Members: 117 members and 36 active friends
• Average attendance: 90 attendees
• Community type: The church is in the charming city of Walla Walla in southeastern Washington. It is known for its numerous wineries plus a very vibrant art, music, and food culture. Its history includes once being an agricultural center and the valley continues to have many active farms and orchards. There are three colleges in the valley which is a draw for students from around the world.
• Children’s ministry leadership: Children’s Ministry Leader, volunteers
• Average weekly children: 8-15

Key Programs and Initiatives

Sunday Morning Children’s Programming:
1. Process: Two classes are held: kindergarten and under, and first through fifth grade. Children are initially present in the main service, with younger children sitting at a “PrayerGround” area in the front. After a children’s message, they move to a classroom on the third floor.
2. Curriculum: Our program uses “Frolic Preschool Sunday School” by Sparkhouse, “A Joyful Path: Inner Wisdom Series: Spiritual Curriculum for Young Hearts and Minds” by Progressive Chrisitanity.org, and various seasonal curricula from Sanctified Art.
3. Actions: Activities include songs, lessons, free play, and special celebrations. The “prayground” features Play-Doh, drawing materials, and beanbag chairs to keep children engaged during the service. Lessons are often based on the minister’s sermon or holidays.
4. People: The children’s ministry leader and other volunteers (including a grandmother), and occasionally parents. A Christian Education Committee supports the program.

Special Sunday Celebrations:
1. Process: Various themed Sundays are held throughout the year, such as Friendship Sunday, Lenten and Easter activities, Fall Festival, Thanksgiving, Advent and Christmas, and St. Patrick’s Day events. These are designed to be experiential and community-building.
2. Actions: Activities vary but include songs, crafts, active learning, games, food projects, and special presentations. Children have also been involved in hosting after-church fellowship and creating table centerpieces.
3. People: The children’s minister, with occasional help from parents and committee members.

Children’s Pageant and Youth Sunday:
1. Process: An annual children’s pageant is held in December, and a Youth Sunday involves teens facilitating the entire service.
2. Actions: The pageant involves costuming, stage guidance, and community support. Youth Sunday includes a “rising” ceremony to celebrate children moving to new grade levels.
3. People: Children, youth, parents, volunteers, and the wider church community.

What’s Working

• Community Building: Creating a sense of community among the children is a primary focus and is proving effective. Two activities to support this are the use of Helper Necklaces (jobs for the children to do to practice being leaders) and Weekly Spiritual Vitamins (positive, age-appropriate affirmations on slips of paper for the children to take home). Examples of jobs are Altar Decorator, Candle Lighter, Breath Guide, Yoga Leader, Bible Reader, Affirmation Leader, Prayer Leader.
• Experiential Learning: Hands-on activities and special celebrations keep children engaged and excited.
• Flexibility: Adapting to the needs of the children and the circumstances (e.g., COVID-19) has been crucial.
• Parent Engagement: Open communication and involvement of parents have strengthened the ministry.
• “PrayerGround”: The front-of-sanctuary area with activities has been well-received, especially with simplified options like Play-Doh.
• Curriculum Adaptation: Supplementing approved curriculum with self-created lessons tailored to the church’s needs and the minister’s messages.

Lessons Learned

• Simplify Activities: Too many choices at the PrayerGround can be overwhelming for children. Focusing on a few key activities, like Play-Doh and drawing, can be more effective.
• Provide Clear Guidance: Volunteers need clear instructions and training for the PrayerGround, not just to supervise but to facilitate and redirect children.
• Create a “What It Sounds Like, Looks Like, and Feels Like” Guide: This helps set expectations for behavior and creates a positive environment at the PrayerGround.
• Communicate Regularly with Parents: Email and text lists can keep parents informed and engaged.
• Adapt to the Space: Be creative with the space you have, even if it has limitations (e.g., third-floor classroom without an elevator or a bathroom).
• Use Special Events to Build Community: Holidays and themed Sundays provide opportunities for connection and fun.
• Value Parent Feedback: Listen to and incorporate parent suggestions.
• Curriculum Should Reflect Community Values: Having access to curriculum that aligns with the specific values and philosophy of the church is highly valuable.
• Connect with Other Ministries: Networking with other children’s ministers and organizations can provide valuable ideas and support.

Conclusion

The children’s ministry at this small, welcoming church demonstrates the power of community, flexibility, and creative programming. By focusing on building relationships, providing engaging activities, and adapting to the needs of the children and families, the ministry has created a thriving environment. The lessons learned, particularly around simplifying activities, providing clear guidance, and fostering parent engagement, can be valuable for other church ministry leaders seeking to create effective and meaningful programs for children. The emphasis on connecting children not only with their local church community but also with a larger network of faith is a powerful reminder of the broader impact of children’s ministry.

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