St Peter’s welcomes all ages to love, serve and grow. Here’s a little more about what we offer our younger members, children and teens. Not everything is back to ‘normal’ yet post Covid, please do ask for current info.
Baptism -we take Christening seriously and our Children’s Ministry team will not only help parents, godparents and children prepare for baptism, but they will stay in touch afterwards and enjoy providing help in teaching faith at home to children. Children are always welcome in church, and we will invite you to come and join the congregation before booking baptisms. We prioritise those in the parish and who have a connection through worship. We have a pew bag to keep small children engaged, we can cope with noise and breastfeeding is not discouraged 🙂
Toddler Group – away from Sundays there is an opportunity to bring children for play, art and craft activities, music and stories – bible stories and popular children’s stories. Carers with babies and toddlers are welcome on Monday mornings at the Church Hall from 9.30 – 11.30am. This is a new group starting Sept 20th 2021 – full info please see the leaflet here.
Stepping Stones – Sundays
All children are welcome in church and to stay in church with parents and carers. We have pew bags with books and toys available. 2-5s can come through with carers into Stepping Stones, where there is a story, songs and prayer.
Junior Church – Sundays
Over 5s can join Junior Church where they have their own sorry and celebrate prayers, along with some age-appropriate teaching based on the reading of the day and an activity. They rejoin the main congregation at the Peace. One week every month the children and children’s minister lead the main prayers.
Admission to Communion
We admit baptized children in the worshipping community to communion from the age of 7. They will do some preparation in Junior Church and usually come in one afternoon to explore the altar and the sanctuary with the Vicar. Admission is a celebration in the main service at the beginning of Advent or Easter.
Messy Church & Sing Praise – happen occasionally
Our younger members meet every term or so to celebrate the main seasons of the church year in a creative way with art, crafts, music, teaching and food. These sessions usually take place 2-4pm on Sundays as advertised – watch out for the banners!
Young People
St Peter’s and our sister church St Cuthbert’s have a number of young people in the congregations, as well as those with whom we have a relationship through our summer youth group ‘NE34’. As time goes on, we are committed to growing these, giving more opportunities for teens and tweens to grow in God and find their place serving his people.
Confirmation
Children who have been admitted to communion may prepare later for confirmation, with or separately from adult candidates. Please ask for details of the next confirmation service.