Children & Families
Growing in faith. Growing in love. Growing together.
Children are a vital part of our life together at St. Michael’s. We believe children come to faith through relationship, story, prayer, worship, and belonging—and that the church is at its best when children know they are not simply being cared for, but are fully part of the Body of Christ.
Our ministry with children and families is designed to help children experience God’s love, grow in faith, build lasting relationships, and discover what it means to belong to a community shaped by the grace of Jesus Christ.
Whether your family has been part of church for years or you are simply wondering what it might be like to visit, you are welcome here.
Sundays at St. Michael’s
Children are always welcome in worship at St. Michael’s. Wiggles, questions, and noise are part of having children in church, and there is grace for all of it. We are glad they are here.
For families who choose it, children can also participate in age-appropriate learning about Jesus, the Bible, and our faith during both our 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. services.
Families may drop children off before services on the St. Michael’s Day School playground, located just down the sidewalk past the sanctuary. Our teachers will be ready to welcome them and walk them to their classrooms.
Whenever possible, children gather in two age groups—Pre-K–2nd Grade and 3rd–5th Grade—though the groups may occasionally learn together.
Children spend the first part of the morning learning through Scripture, prayer, conversation, and activities designed especially for them. They are then brought into church in time to join their families for Holy Communion.
Gathering Room
If your child isn’t quite ready for the nursery or Sunday School, you are welcome to worship from the Gathering Room, a comfortable space adjacent to the sanctuary. Parents can listen to the service through our speaker system while children are invited to play, color, and get their wiggles out. We offer a changing table and a range of age-appropriate toys for use.
Nursery
Loving nursery care is available on Sunday mornings for children ages 0–3. Our nursery staff provides a safe, warm, and welcoming environment while parents participate in worship and formation
The nursery opens at 8:45 a.m. and remains open through the conclusion of the 11:00 a.m. service.
What We Hope Children Discover
Our goal is bigger than simply teaching children Bible stories. We want children to begin discovering a faith they can carry with them throughout their lives.
Through Scripture, prayer, worship, relationships, and the rhythms of the Episcopal tradition, we help children learn:
that they are deeply loved by God;
that they belong in the Church;
how the stories of Scripture connect with their own lives;
how to pray and participate in worship;
what Baptism and Holy Communion mean;
and how following Jesus shapes the way we love and serve others.
Most importantly, we want every child who comes through our doors to know: There is a place for you here.
Children in Worship
We want children to know that worship belongs to them, too.
Children participate throughout the life of St. Michael’s—as worshipers, readers, singers, and leaders. Beginning in 3rd grade, children are invited to serve as acolytes, helping lead our worship by carrying the cross, torches, and banners and assisting at the altar. No previous experience is necessary, and training is provided.
Baptism is one of the great celebrations of our life together.
In Baptism, we are joined to Christ and welcomed into the household of God. At St. Michael’s, we baptize infants, children, and adults, and the entire congregation promises to support the newly baptized in their life in Christ.
If you are considering Baptism for yourself or your child, we would love to walk with you through the process. Preparation is provided for parents, children, and adults as appropriate.
Baptism
Holy Communion
All baptized Christians, including children, are welcome to receive Holy Communion at St. Michael’s.
There is no required age at which a child must begin receiving Communion. Parents may decide when their child is ready, and our clergy are always happy to talk with families about Communion or help children learn more about what happens at the altar.
Children who are not yet receiving Communion are warmly invited to come forward for a blessing.
Beyond Sunday Morning
Faith grows through relationships and shared experiences, so our ministry extends beyond Sunday mornings.
Throughout the year, children and families gather for Vacation Bible Camp, seasonal celebrations, special formation opportunities, service projects, and family gatherings designed to deepen friendships and help families grow together in faith.
Your Family is Welcome Here.
Visiting for the first time?
We’d love to know you’re coming so we can be looking for your family and help your child feel at home. You’re also always welcome simply to show up. We recommend arriving about 10 minutes before the service so there’s plenty of time to meet a teacher and get your child settled.
We know visiting a church—especially with children—can feel like a lot. You don’t need to have everything figured out before you come.
Come as you are. Bring your children. Ask questions. We’ll help you find your way.
We would love to welcome your family to St. Michael’s.