CHILDREN AND THE CHURCH

Christians are called to share the Christian Gospel with others and that includes children. As I travel around the Diocese many express concern at the lack of involvement of children and their families in the Church.

In addressing this issue the Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham James, suggests a framework to help churches consider how they might reach out to children and their families.

It is often assumed that children today have no interest in the Christian Faith, but when given the opportunity to explore the Christian story by Christians who value them, there is real interest.

As Adviser for Children's Work in the Diocese, my role is to enable parishes to find appropriate ways of reaching out to children and involving them in the life of the Church in such a way that they can learn, experience and respond to the Christian Faith.

I am here ...............

• to help parishes evaluate their present work and explore new ways of reaching children
• to support and encourage leaders by helping them to find appropriate resources, deal with difficult issues, be a listening ear, etc
• to make available training that will build the confidence and skills of those working with children

Contact me - Norris Boyland (Adviser for Children's Work) - at ..............

View our publication on Admitting Children to Holy Communion before Confirmation

Prayer for Children and Young People

Prayer must be the starting point of our work with children and young people. Why not use this prayer daily for the children and young people in your parish or area..

Lord, you have entrusted to our care and concern
the children and young people of your Church,
and have charged us to guide them to find their place in the Way of Christ.

Help us to be faithful in our enabling, our teaching and our prayers,
that our children and young people,
as members of your pilgrim family,
may grow in the knowledge of your love,
to worship and serve you all their days.
Amen.