GO and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.  Matthew 28: 19-20

As the children of Brenthaven Cumberland Presbyterian Church gathered to lead worship on Sunday morning, this was their message: GO and make disciples! And, yes, they led worship in every sense of the word. Children K – 6th grade worked together for several months to write prayers, create artwork, practice songs, talk about their faith in front of the video camera, and learn about worship. On the day of the service, they were poised and prepared to lead the congregation during worship. And since all the children were serving in some way, they invited the adult choir to come down for “Choir Time” instead of the traditional children’s sermon.

You may wonder why this worship service happens? Here are some important factors:

• This service has become a tradition for this congregation and the children spend time each year learning worship leading skills.
• The pastor, staff, and congregation welcome having children lead in this way.
• The leaders who work with the children are committed to teaching children the skills it takes to lead worship and to listening to their ideas about what should be included.
• Finally, the most important of all – it takes a lot of grace and love.

Why not invite children to lead worship at your church? Or, if you are not quite ready for that,  ask children to read the scripture in worship, or ask them to create artwork to share on the bulletin cover. Start small – but, start inviting them into the leadership of worship as a way of teaching them life-long skills and appreciation for worship.