Should you read a story, show an object, or have swag? Should it be funny, poignant, or sweet? Will the kids be bored? Will they refuse to sit still and be quiet, or worse, not speak at all?Should you use the reading even if it isn’t exactly child friendly? And then, of course, the biggest question of all – how do you teach a lesson that adults struggle to comprehend, to young kids, in 5 minutes? These concerns, coupled with having too much to do and too little time, are just some of the reasons why writing the children’s message is often the most difficult and challenging part of preparing for Sunday morning worship.
The pressure is understandable. What we teach kids during these few minutes is helping to introduce them to the Bible, worship, and life as a Christian, all while giving them lessons they will carry for the rest of their lives. Furthermore, the kids aren’t the only ones listening. Adults oftentimes comment that they get more out of the children’s message than the sermon. While often seen as the simple, perhaps even optional part of the service, the children’s message is actually one of the most crucial as well as sensitive pieces of a service. The stress and anxietyyou feel is real and we can help.
Sparkhouse Digital offers weekly children’s messages for Sundays and holidays including Christmas, Easter, and World Communion. There are also messages for special days such as the Blessing of the Bibles and the Sundays in Black History Month. Following the lectionary, each message follows a similar pattern but with variations to keep kids’ attention. Some weeks may have an illustration using STEM, another week might use simple magic. All have been written to require both minimal preparation and only a few, common supplies if any. Full scripts are provided, however feel free to put the message into your own words or simply grab an idea to take in a different direction. All messages are written and used by clergy in their congregations but can be tweaked as needed for your context.
Have a children’s message that you think works well? Send it to us! We are always adding to our resources so that you always have what you need.