Children & Youth
Baptism & Dedication | Youth Page
We are blessed to have growing numbers of children, youth and their families affiliated with St Mary's, who are either regularly attending services or, who come occasionally to special events.
In addition to extending a loving and caring welcome to these people, the church
takes very seriously the challenge to "vet" all who work with them in the church
setting. Apart from regular "safety" training and discussion, each children's
worker is required to have regular, formal Police checks. In addition we seek to
ensure that more than one adult is present during children's and youth
activities
There is always a crèche for babies and infants through to 4 years operating in
St Mary's on Sunday morning during services. The crèche room has a large glass
window affording a view of the Church auditorium and will shortly have relayed
sound. It is well stocked with toys and supervisors are experienced mums and
dads.
Children and Intermediate-aged youth are catered for in Sunday services by the
intergenerational focus of our all-together times; and through 40 min.
'break-out" sessions. Leaders and teachers are well-experienced and are
committed to share the Christian message at an age-appropriate level.
9-13 year olds are overseen by our Younger Youth Worker and information about
ministry to this group is on the youth page of this
site.
There is also an emerging high school age youth group which is currently meeting on Friday evenings.
Youth Team who assisted with the July 2007
Waste Watchers' School Holiday Programme
(Click to enlarge)
Infants' and Children's Baptism & Dedication
We offer infant and children's baptism after discussion with their parents. This
will normally take place on a Sunday morning during a congregational service.
The practice of having godparents or sponsors formally acknowledged at baptism
is encouraged. An application for
baptism form is available online (PDF) or a
hard copy can be sent if you request one.
Older children and their families may prefer to have baptism by immersion. We
are open to arranging baptisms in a pool or in the sea, with members of the
congregation present, preferably after a Sunday morning service.
Families may prefer to give thanks for the birth of their child by formally
dedicating them to God in a service. That way the child is enabled to have more
say in the decision about their possible future baptism as an older child,
teenager of adult.
Church Children
(Click to enlarge)