We encourage our families to stay together for the whole service.  We know that the result is a noisier and less serene atmosphere, but the noises that do happen are understandable and definitely worth the benefits. (Hear it straight from our families! )  Everybody in our community has opportunities to "parent in the pew", and we value those times because we believe it can produce long-lasting effects.

For example. Scott Brown says this:

“There is great value for a very young child experiencing the deep and authentic worship of the church. Something is being transferred as they watch their fathers give of the family resources during the offering.  As they grow up, their understanding will increase.  Something is being transferred as they watch the adults “worship in spirit and in truth” (John 4:23).  They don’t get everything, but they can get something from observing the fervency and genuineness of the church’s expression of love for God, dependence upon Him, and joy in Him.  This is the value of having children in church.  Children progressively understand what a parent and the wider church members love and appreciate. Year after year, their understanding builds.  Year after year, the well is filling up.  The cumulative effect of deep and significant thinking and activities is what we are looking for.”

Here are a few comments from children in our church:

“I'm glad that we don't have a Sunday school class because I enjoy being with my family.  I like the way Pastor Griffin teaches verse by verse and explains what each verse means.” Age 9

“I like Pastor Griffin teaching us Bible time and I like Daddy teaching us Bible time.” Age 3

We know very well that it is more challenging to keep the kids with you, but our community is very understanding because we believe in the great benefits it affords.