​For those of you who are newer to online worship, you may be wondering about some ways you can help your kids (or even yourself!) to engage in worship, instead of it being just another screen.  Here are some ideas to get you started.  If you have any extra suggestions, let us know!

- Provide a copy of the scripture reading that people can read along with Pastor Ron.  The readings can get long for little ears to listen to.  We will include the readings in the weekly announcements.
- Have children take turns being the “acolyte.”  If you don’t feel comfortable lighting real candles, battery operated candles work great as well!
- During the Passing of the Peace, share God’s peace with others in your family by shaking hands or making the sign of the cross on their forehead. 
-Try to watch the service in the same place each week, and have a routine you follow before the service starts.  Some families may consider having everyone be up, dressed, and ready for the day to get their brains in the right space for worship.
-Make a worship bin with special quiet toys (magna tiles, Lego, etc.) and art materials that you only get out during worship – similar to the busy bags we use when we worship in the Sanctuary.
-Give your younger children instruments, scarves, or blankets to wave around during the worship songs and sing and dance around with them.
-Before the service starts, ask everyone to share a high and low from the week. Then pray that the Holy Spirit would help each of you listen for how the sermon text speaks to their high/low. Share these after the service.
-Encourage your child to draw or create a piece of art in response to the sermon that they can send to a grandparent, prayer champion or older member of the congregation.