“Tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.”
As Christians we have been tasked with building up, teaching and training the next generation of believers. That’s why, on one Sunday every month, Kidz Parkway presents:
Kidz Church!
We caught up with Teresa Haldorsen to get the scoop on what happens every month in Kidz Church, what this monthly service looks like, and how it’s helping our kids to grow in Christ.
What Happens in Kidz Church?
The monthly Kidz Church service happens every second Sunday of the month at the same time as Parkway’s regular Sunday AM service. This special church service is one that Teresa says is “for kids and including kids.”
“In Kidz Church, students are participators,” she explains. “They take part in almost every part of the service.”
Back in the Concessions area every month, our children can be found serving in some of the same ways that our adult Parkway members do every week.
· Kids are the greeters – they welcome their fellow students to the service
· Kids are worshipers – they sing, play instruments, and lead others in worship
· Kids are prayer leaders – they lead the group in corporate prayer
· Kids are preachers – they present a message from God’s word to the group
· Kids are workers – they’re involved in areas like production to help ensure the service goes smoothly
It’s a church service just like the one in the main sanctuary – but it’s geared toward children and produced by children under the guiding hands of their Kidz Church adult volunteers.
What an amazing way to prepare our children for their future ministries!
How Kidz Church is Preparing the Next Generation
David was anointed as the next King of Israel when he was still a child. God told Jeremiah that he was anointed as a prophet while he was in still in his mother’s womb. John the Baptist’s calling was placed on his life before he was even born.
What does this mean for us? God has a plan, a purpose, and a calling on your child’s life! And it’s our responsibility to equip them, prepare them, and encourage them to grow into that calling.
One crucial thing that Kidz Church does: It prepares our youngest generation for their future service in the kingdom. And the students take their jobs in Kidz Church seriously!
Honing Kids’ Skills and Abilities
The worship team in Kidz Church is made up of young adults, youth members, and Kidz Parkway students. They work hard every week by practicing at home in order to develop their abilities and help usher in the presence of God during the service.
The greeters, worship team, and those in other student roles are dedicated to their responsibilities. They arrive early on Sunday morning to rehearse, prepare for the service, and make sure every student attendee is welcomed.
“What we LOVE is that Kidz Church is a training ground for a lifetime of service in the Kingdom of God.” Teresa says.
Preparing Their Hearts
But our children aren’t just being prepared for their future ministries with physical obligations and work… Kids are also being spiritually prepared for the work they’ll do in the kingdom!
At the end of every Kidz Church service, there’s an alter call. Students are given an opportunity to act in obedience to the message and grow their faith during some precious times of group prayer.
“Wow, do they respond!” Teresa says. “We have experienced so many sweet altar moments in Kidz Church and are looking forward to even greater things to come!”
How Kidz Church is Achieving the Mission
One way this ministry is reaching the world with the message of God’s love is by how newcomers are invited in. Kidz Church frequently has first-time attendees, and they’re given VIP treatment!
Each new student wears a VIP lanyard and is given a special treat. They’re even given the opportunity to serve during the children’s service – That’s right, on their very first visit!
Teresa says the goal of Kidz Church is consistent with Parkway’s mission: Drawing closer to God, drawing closer to one another, and reaching friends for Jesus.
“We will continue to look for new and creative ways to include and equip all members – no matter what age – to serve and make a difference in the Kingdom!”
Want to Get Involved in this Important Ministry?
Kidz Church and Kidz Parkway are always looking for volunteers to help grow, equip, and minister to our youngest group of Parkway members and guests. If you want to get involved with and contribute to this amazing ministry, email 4u@parkwayoc.com and ask how you can start volunteering in our Children’s Ministries.