Forms of All-age Worship

All-age services can take several forms:

• There is the 'DIY' version, which starts with a blank piece of paper and you put in what you want. This is arguably the most difficult method.

• The service can become a series of events like beads on a string, but this form can lack focus and often can be too long.

• It may be easier to let someone else do the basic work for you. Suggested outlines for all-age worship are often published in resources for children. Outlines are also published by the main denominations for both a 'Service of the Word' as well as for Holy Communion. Don't be scared of having an all-age communion. This service is full of signs and symbols that speak stronger than words, and the message of a community gathering around the table in response to Jesus' command is a powerful one for all ages and stages of faith.

• Some churches have children and adults together in every service. But here it is important to remember that the service should feed and challenge the regular and informed worshippers as well as including the youngest and least-formed member. All-age worship is neither a children's service with adults (often) grudgingly present nor an adult service with some parts for children (which they will instantly recognise as patronising).

• A more common practice is to have an all-age service once a month. Nearly every church has occasional services that are geared towards families and the fringe: Christingle, crib service, Mothering Sunday, Harvest or Pentecost. These are usually the best-attended services of the year, so it is worth taking time to prepare them carefully so that everyone can actively take part.

For practical ideas for all-age worship on themes throughout the year, read Creative Ideas for All-age Church by Karen Bulley.

For practical all-age ideas for a communion service, read Creative Communion by Margaret Withers and Tim Sledge.