ACP Children’s Worship

Embracing families is our first and most important priority of the ACP ministry to children. We want our children to know God’s love for them in Jesus Christ and worship is at the heart of the faith. But corporate worship is structured and full of words and symbols based on stories and memories children do not yet have. It is why we invite to the ACP Sunday worship time for children aged 4 (moyenne section) to 5th grade (CM2) during the 11h00 service.

Our theme this May and June is “Parables Jesus Told”.

What Happens In Children’s Worship?

We follow the same pattern as adult worship. All ages begin in the Sanctuary with the entire church family, as the children participate in the opening songs and prayers of worship. Then they are sent and welcomed to their special worship space to continue to meet with God.

In their own worship space, children are reminded that this is a special place and time – we don’t rush or run in this place. And we speak softly in this place – because someone else may be listening to God, and we do not want to interrupt them.

The leader presents a Bible story. The narrative style is meditative, encouraging the children to focus on the story so that they can enter into it and experience God.

After hearing the story children respond to the story, first with their imagination, and then with their hands. The storytellers lead the children in wondering questions. Afterward, children are invited to make their own response, either through working with their hands, or re-telling the story using the materials.

At the end of the response time, the children and leader offer prayers of thanksgiving, reflecting the meaning of the word Eucharist. On the first Sunday of every month, the traditional nursery school snack is transformed into a feast as a sign of the Messianic banquet and a reminder that every Sunday is a feast day in celebration of Jesus' resurrection.

As each child departs, he or she is sent home with a blessing.

If you have any questions about the program or if you would like to join the worship team, you can contact the ACP Children’s Worship Coordinators, Ania Bannister and Anne Speicher, at childrensworship@acparis.org. :