As the Postlude was playing, the children waited in line out in the Narthex, a blue or purple scarf in each hand. They listened as Ms. Eloise sang "Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord." As the congregation joined in, the children stepped out, one at time, and processed toward the altar table, waving their scarves high, reaching up toward God. After they laid their scarves on the table, they arranged themselves in the pulpit area, ready to lead the Call to Worship.
What a blessed way to begin worship each Sunday in Advent. The children were excited to be able to contribute in such an active way, and the adults loved being lead by these enthusiastic children. Most weeks we had about 6 children involved. The week they joined the adult choir in providing the anthem, there were 9 children participating. Then there was the last Sunday of Advent -- a cold rainy day 3 days before Christmas; two children faithfully led.
The church family equally welcomed the larger group of 9 children and the smaller group of 2. It really didn't matter how many children were there to help lead worship. What mattered was the enthusiastic willingness to be an active leader in worship. The children learned a lot more than the words to "Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord." They learned that they were an integral part of the family of God.
No comments:
Post a Comment