The good folks at Augsburg Fortress (the ELCA's publishing ministry) have some great tips on how to introduce young children to the ELCA's hymnal, Evangelical Lutheran Worship. We share them with you with this reminder—we love kids in worship!
- Hold the book: Very young children should be encouraged to hold the book as soon as they show interest. Turning the pages and seeing the images created by art, words, and music contributes to a child's sense that they are included when they see others holding the book.
- Sit in the front: Children are more likely to feel connected and participate if they can see. Sit towards the front, where children can see what is happening in worship..
- Show them “where” we are: Help children follow along by showing them where the action corresponds with the words, art and music in the book.
- Encourage them to move: Encourage children and youth to be a part of the movement of worship—standing, kneeling, following a procession, making the sign of the cross, coming to the table during Holy Communion, sitting near the font during a baptism, sharing their own gifts when the offering is gathers, exchanging the peace of Christ (seniors love it when the kids come up to them!).
- Reinforce the children's sermon: Look for other parts or words of the worship service that go along with the children's sermon. Continue to talk about it when you get home.
- Sing refrains: Some of the new hymns and songs have refrains. Encourage your child(ren) to memorize and sing along with them.
- Give feedback to the pastor: Have your child tell the pastor what they like about worship and don't like. A few years ago a thoughtful young man weekly drew the appropriate faces on the worship folder next to the hymns he liked, didn't like, and so-so liked. This feedback was very useful and influenced selection. We listen carefully to the kids.
- Use at home: Use the Evangelical Lutheran Worship for personal and family devotions. During Advent and Lent, learn the prayers or words from worship services used during that particular season of the church year. The service of 'Responsive Prayer' (pages 328-331) can be used with children who are able to read.
- Explore prayers & Psalms: Explore some of the new prayers and Psalms. Say or sing them together whenever your family prays.
- Play a hymn at home: If your child plays a musical instrument, encourage them to play hymns and songs at home. (PS: When they feel secure enough, let us know. They are certainly welcome to play at church for worship. We love it when people play no matter what their level!)
Adapted from “Introducing children and youth to Evangelical Lutheran Worship” ©2006 Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. All rights reserved. Permission granted for local use in introducing Evangelical Lutheran Worship.
