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.

From Wonder to Wisdom

Every Sunday, 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

March 29, 2024
  • March 29, 20242:00 pm - 3:00 pm

    Labyrinth Walk (begin at Garden entrance)

    You are invited this Good Friday to find some time for reflection and meditation using the ancient spiritual practice of walking a labyrinth.  This will begin with a time of gathering and centering.  The walking of the labyrinth will be in silence, after which participants are invited to meet for reflection and a blessing.  The experience will be led by Harriet Henderson, a labyrinth facilitator.

March 30, 2024
  • March 30, 202411:00 am - 12:00 pm

    Easter choir rehearsal (Sanctuary)

    Special rehearsal in preparation for Easter Sunday!

March 31, 2024
  • March 31, 20247:00 am - 8:00 am

    Easter Worship in the Garden (Memorial Garden)

    This is a joyful early morning celebration of the resurrection held in the Memorial Garden.  We come with the women to the tomb and peer in. Among the new day light, the trees, and the early morning birds, we raise our alleluias! 

  • March 31, 20247:45 am - 8:30 am

    Easter Breakfast (Fellowship Hall)

    Christ is Risen! Shout Hosanna!  Celebrate this days of days over a cup of coffee or tea and light breakfast that features fresh grilled fish and "communion bread pudding."

  • March 31, 20248:00 am - 8:45 am

    Choir rehearsal (Sanctuary)

    Sunday morning preparation for worship

  • March 31, 20249:00 am - 10:00 am

    Easter Worship (Sanctuary and Livestream)

    This service embodies a classic worship tradition. Biblical and faithful preaching bring God’s Word to life. Musical leadership comes through the Chancel Choir and our pipe organ and for Easter includes a brass ensemble. Bring a flower for the cross!

  • March 31, 202410:00 am - 11:00 am

    Easter Fellowship (Fellowship Hall)

    Hallelujah!  He is Risen!  Our Parish Life team provides beverages and cookies this morning in between services and invites everyone to enjoy one another's company in Fellowship Hall. Please make a point of saying hello to someone you don't yet know!

  • March 31, 202411:00 am - 12:00 pm

    Easter Worship (Sanctuary)

    This service embodies a classic worship tradition. Biblical and faithful preaching bring God’s Word to life. Musical leadership comes through the Chancel Choir and our pipe organ and for Easter includes a brass ensemble. Bring a flower for the cross!

April 4, 2024
  • April 4, 202410:15 am - 11:15 am

    Bell Choir rehearsal (Loeffler Chapel)

    Weekly rehearsals to prepare music for sharing in worship once a month.
    Interested?  Contact Minister of Music, Meghan Meloy Ness.

  • April 4, 20247:30 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.

  • April 4, 20248:00 pm - 9:30 pm

    AA (McCahan Hall)

    Swarthmore Presbyterian Church welcomes AA participants to weekly meetings in McCahan Hall. Entrance is via a door on the west end of the parking lot (across from the ABC House) under a covered walkway there.
    For those who are fully vaccinated against COVID, masks are optional. For those not yet fully vaccinated, or working with children, masks are required. Seating/distancing is at the comfort level of the individuals attending.