Children

‘Whoever welcomes a child in my name, welcomes me.’ Mark 9.37

 

Children and Young People are as much part of the Church as anyone else, and it is important to us that they feel welcome and part of the worship here at Saint Michael’s. Children of all ages are welcome to every service at Saint Michael’s.

Please feel free to move about and look after your child during worship as is most helpful to you. Changing facilities and toilets can be found in the Community Centre next door to the church. The Stewards are always available to offer help and assistance. There is a soft-play area at the back of the church for younger children. Most Sundays there is a Children’s Mass at 11.30am, with a monthly Family Mass (usually last Sunday) at 10am that brings the whole church together. Throughout the year there are many special services and events for children – see our links at the top of the page and our Parish Calendar.

In addition, each term we hold two Sunday Club Workshops when children aged 4-10 stay on after the Children’s Mass for lunch, teaching, and activities in order to form them in the Christian faith in a way that is accessible and fun. We also hold occasion special events for teenagers and each year we invite children and young people aged 11+ to prepare for Confirmation. For more information see the Confirmation page.

We also launched Barnes Children’s Choir last year for children aged 6-13. It is led by our Director of Music, Laurence Williams who has a wealth of experience running children’s choirs, and assisted by experienced teacher and musician Frederick Appleby. The choir rehearses on Wednesdays from 3.30-4.15pm in church and learns a range of music from traditional to modern, serious to fun, spiritual to secular. No experience or musical skills needed and no audition – only enthusiasm needed! Safeguarding procedures are in place. Do come and join in. – simply sign up and come along. There is no charge, as we do not want anyone to be prevented from taking part, but we invite a donation each term from those who are able to contribute. To sign up, express an interest or ask any questions, please email Laurence.

 

Children's Ministry Leader

Gemma Curran is our Children’s Ministry Leader whose roles is to help children grow in their Christian faith and support families at St Michael’s. Gemma also co-ordinates our Children’s Team who help organise our children and families ministry.

Parish Safeguarding Officer

St. Michael’s takes seriously its commitment to protect children and has a dedicated Safeguarding Officer, Camilla Harries, whose role is to make sure that we maintain the highest standards in the protection of the vulnerable. All children’s volunteers and staff receive appropriate checks and training. For more information or to discuss any matter related to safeguarding please get in touch with Camilla, who is always happy to help.

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