“Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.” (Matthew 19:14)
This verse has been on my mind and in my heart since starting as St. Mary’s Children and Family Minister in June. Jesus’ call to “let the little children come to me” serves as a daily reminder of our commitment to bring the love of God to the children of St. Mary’s.
Sometimes that looks like literally inviting children to come to gather around the altar at our 9 AM service. I love seeing the children’s faces as they look on with wonder and curiosity, and it always makes me smile when they enthusiastically stretch out their hands to bless the bread and wine. This is a visible embodiment of Matthew 19:14, as we let the children come close to Jesus in the Sacrament of the Eucharist.
Another way that we welcome the little children is by creating space for them to draw close to God through Sunday School. As many of you know, we are using a new Sunday School curriculum this year. Both of our classrooms (TK - 1st and 2nd - 5th) are utilizing the structure of Godly Play, which mirrors the movements of our Sunday services with welcoming, reading of sacred stories, reflection and responses, a feast (snack), and closing prayer.
One of my favorite phrases that often shows up in Godly Play stories is “the people came so close to God, and God came so close to them.” Whether it be the story of Abraham and Sarah, St. Francis of Assisi, or the prophets, these moments show us that we are in relationship with God. It invites our children and all of us to draw close to the God who loves, knowing that God is already coming so close to us.
Each Sunday, I am grateful for the children who gather together to explore God’s stories. I love seeing and hearing their interpretations of stories like Noah’s Ark and Moses parting the waters in Exodus, or seeing the way they work together on a creative project. These moments wouldn’t be possible without an amazing team of fourteen teachers and helpers who have volunteered to help make our program a reality. It is an exciting time for children’s ministry at St. Mary’s! If you find yourself wondering how you might get involved in this growing ministry, please reach out to me at elaina@smvsf.org.
The Rev. Elaina Jo LeGault Children & Family Minister
