Children in Worship
Because we are thankful for the presence of children among us, we strive to include them, so they may worship just as fully as adults do. Here at SPC, we believe that worship is vital to the religious lives of children, both for their daily lives now and as part of the formation of a mature faith. We also know that younger children sometimes need to move and make noise more than adults do. Bringing children to worship may not always be easy, but it is a vital part of their Christian journey.
› Worship Bookshelves
There are several useful tools available to keep active hands busy and minds engaged. Children ages 4 through 13 will find a variety of books, children’s Bibles, coloring worksheets, and word games in the children’s activity center, located in the large transept and on the bookshelf in the back corner of the Sanctuary. Please invite your children to go and take a look.
› A Time with Children
Children are a vital part of our worship life, and always welcome. Every Sunday, in the 10:15 am service, children are called forward for a special lesson that relates back to what we are discussing in worship that morning. The pastor sits on the steps in the front of the Sanctuary, alongside the children, and engages them in a lesson, using words and props that younger children can understand and enjoy. Sometimes we ask them questions; other times we tell them stories; and we always conclude with a repeat-after-me prayer.
After A Time with Children concludes, children ages 3 through 6 are welcome to head up to McCahan Hall for enrichment activities.
› Acolytes, Banner & Cross Carriers
In the Presbyterian tradition, pastors and choir process into the sanctuary at the beginning of our service. On “high” Sundays in the church calendar, the procession is led by youth carrying the cross and church banner. Children in 5th grade and older and invited to be among those who lead us into worship.
› Chapel Worship
Our most “kid-friendly” service is our Chapel service, which meets twice each month in Loeffler Chapel. Here, participants are invited to worship God with hands and feet, as well as words, songs and silence. Elements of worship take many forms, from art to movement to quiet contemplation.
› Childcare
Childcare for infants and young toddlers is always available from 8:45 am to 12:15 pm in our Nursery, located in the back corner of McCahan Hall. Our Childcare coordinator is there every Sunday, providing a fun, safe, and consistent presence for the kids.
Contact Us! We Would Love to Hear From You
Upcoming Events
- May 25, 2025
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May 25, 20258:00 am - 9:00 am
Early Worship (Loeffler Chapel)
This 45-minute service allows worshippers to engage with scripture through guided discussion in lieu of a sermon. Communion is served on the 1st Sunday of each month.
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May 25, 20259:30 am - 10:00 am
Choir rehearsal (Sanctuary)
Sunday morning preparation for worship.
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- May 27, 2025
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May 27, 20259:00 am - 3:00 pm
Summer Church Camp (SPNDS spaces)
Caring for one another and Creation!
Associate Pastor David Norse Thomas will be joined by many teachers from SPNDS (Swarthmore Presbyterian Nursery Day School) to explore caring for one another and creation through creative play, music and movement, art, science, story time, Godly Play, kids’ yoga and mindfulness, games, and outdoor fun. Details and registration forthcoming.
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- May 28, 2025
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May 28, 20259:00 am - 3:00 pm
Summer Church Camp (SPNDS spaces)
Caring for one another and Creation!
Associate Pastor David Norse Thomas will be joined by many teachers from SPNDS (Swarthmore Presbyterian Nursery Day School) to explore caring for one another and creation through creative play, music and movement, art, science, story time, Godly Play, kids’ yoga and mindfulness, games, and outdoor fun. Details and registration forthcoming.
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- May 29, 2025
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May 29, 20259:00 am - 3:00 pm
Summer Church Camp (SPNDS spaces)
Caring for one another and Creation!
Associate Pastor David Norse Thomas will be joined by many teachers from SPNDS (Swarthmore Presbyterian Nursery Day School) to explore caring for one another and creation through creative play, music and movement, art, science, story time, Godly Play, kids’ yoga and mindfulness, games, and outdoor fun. Details and registration forthcoming. -
May 29, 20257:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Chancel Choir Rehearsal (Fellowship Hall)
Weekly rehearsal to prepare for music for offering in worship Sunday mornings. New singers always welcome!
Led by Minister of Music, Meghan Meloy Ness.
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- May 30, 2025
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May 30, 20259:00 am - 3:00 pm
Summer Church Camp (SPNDS spaces)
Caring for one another and Creation!
Associate Pastor David Norse Thomas will be joined by many teachers from SPNDS (Swarthmore Presbyterian Nursery Day School) to explore caring for one another and creation through creative play, music and movement, art, science, story time, Godly Play, kids’ yoga and mindfulness, games, and outdoor fun. Details and registration forthcoming.
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- May 31, 2025
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May 31, 202511:00 am - 12:00 pm
Memorial Service (Sanctuary)
A Service of Witness to the Resurrection and Thanksgiving for the life of Betsy Fry.
Guests are invited to a reception in Fellowship Hall following the service. -
May 31, 202512:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Memorial Reception (Fellowship Hall)
Guests attending the memorial service for Betsy Fry are invited to greet the family, share remembrances, and enjoy some refreshments at a reception in Fellowship Hall.
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