Where are the Children?

I’ve heard numerous comments in TLC that we need to bring children into the church; that the children are the church’s future, or where are the children?  Of course we’re not unique in this desire; most LCMS congregations have few if any children today; and our average age of members grows about 1 year for every year that passes (I.E. we’re not bringing any new young members into the church).  Other than wringing our hands and maybe praying occasionally should we be taking steps to present the Gospel to the children that are all around us now?  That was a “rhetorical” question, the answer is obvious, of course we should; I don’t think anyone wants to exclude children from the church, at least I hope not.

The most common starting point to reach children according to most who work in this ministry is you have to start having contacts with children.  Find ways to interact with children, find ways to do things that help children in some way.  Just offering a worship opportunity every week doesn’t get it done; there are lots of other things to attract their attention other than setting in a worship service, that they may not understand, for an hour once a week.

What can TLC do right now to begin connecting with children?  I don’t mean someday when that new building is completed and we’re worshiping every week in it, but today.  After all, what are we waiting for…there will never be that perfect time to start; but we can start planning and laying the foundation for a revitalized children’s ministry right now; yes even during COVID!

Rebecca’s Garden of Hope is an established and respected after school children’s ministry with a great track record; that provides after school activities, and tutoring for children. TLC is well located to host this ministry, it just takes people willing to work in it.  Look it up at www.rebeccasgardenofhope.org.  Want to help? contact me or Pastor Marc to get started.

But this isn’t the only way.  With a little thought we can come up with a variety of ideas to start the conversation about faith in Jesus with the children that we can reach.  Got a great idea you’d like to work on; we’d love to hear it.  Leave a comment with your idea and lets’ get started!