Child-Friendly Churches: Moving from a Categorical to an Intergenerational Approach

Stefanus Theofilus Ferdinan Kumaat, Arthur Reinhard Rumengan, Ferry Sonny Nixon Lumintang

Abstract


Worship lies at the heart of church life, with the entire community participating in the adoration of God. The church is essentially an intergenerational community where all members share in a fellowship that grows in the knowledge of Christ. Ongoing changes compel the church to adapt and continuously innovate in its internal life and ministry. This study aims to analyze the church's transition from a categorical approach specifically regarding children to an inclusive intergenerational model, seeking to create a worship environment that empowers children to participate actively in all aspects of church life in a holistic and sustainable manner. The greatest challenge in implementing intergenerational worship lies in building a "bridge" to connect generations within the congregation generations previously separated by categorical ministry structures. Findings indicate a shift from categorical to intergenerational approaches. A child-friendly church is fostered through cross-generational collaboration, the strengthening of faith, and the creation of an inclusive community that supports the spiritual growth of all family members. Thus, a child-friendly church is not merely a program but a calling to build an intergenerational community. Children are not merely the future; they are an integral part of the present, deserving to be treated as equals, heard, and actively involved in the full dynamics of worship and ministry.


Keywords


Intergenerational, Worship, Children, Church

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.53674/pjt.v3i1.316

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