Part of the idea of ministry with and ministry by children is that the church needs children as full participants for its flourishing. From a young age, children can take part in the life of the church, including serving alongside other church members. Rather than limiting children’s leadership and service to special Sundays, why not invite and include them as regular participants on your church’s service teams? Here are five ways kids can serve in your church!
1. Welcoming Visitors as Greeters or Ushers.
Visiting a new church can be difficult for anyone, especially children. Imagine what it would be like for visiting children & families in your church to be greeted by other children. Children can extend a welcoming presence to others who attend the church. These children can also brainstorm how to help visitors feel welcome such as materials to add to the welcome packs or suggesting unique child-specific welcome gifts.
2. Serving on the Hospitality Team
If your church has a coffee hour or special treats following service, invite children to help organize, set up, and plan for the refreshments and how they will be served. Kids could also contribute to times of fellowship by brainstorming discussion topics or getting to know you questions for the congregation to discuss during the fellowship time.
3. Apprenticing on the Audio/Visual Team.
Older children can work as apprentices with an adult or teen to learn to use the A/V system or run slideshows. As digital natives, children are often very adept at technology and will probably contribute help of their own.
4. Helping as Junior Worship Leaders
Children can work as apprentices with adult or teen leaders to participate in leading worship services, whether for the whole church or for kids’ ministry. They can even be invited to practice alongside the worship team until they gain confidence to participate in leading worship. They don’t have to play on every song. It’s completely fine to have them join the worship team for one or two songs in a week.
5. Reading Scripture
Children can read scripture or participate in dramatic scripture readings, either during the full church worship service or in special children’s worship services. Again, this is an opportunity for mentoring and apprenticeship as adults or older teens come alongside children to help them learn to read clearly, practice their readings, and provide feedback and encouragement.
It will take intentionality, time, and volunteers to help children contribute meaningfully to your church’s life together, but it will be worth it! How does your church make space for children to use their gifts to serve your church?