FAMILIES, CHILDREN & YOUTH

We value families and children. Our children worship with the rest of the Church. We believe that children are no less members of Church than the adults. One of the Vineyard distinctives is worship and we believe that children learn to worship in the Church and with their parents. They are encouraged to sing, dance and express themselves in worship. The sound of children shows us that there is life in our Church. Jesus said let the little children come to me and who are we to go against his words. We also provide ear defenders should they be needed and have a playmat for littlies and toddlers so parents can be with their kids in the service (we also have a quiet space with the service streamed to it, just off the sanctuary).

Our children are also welcome and encouraged to take communion with their families as part of the whole Church, they will occasionally serve (under supervision) in Church and are encouraged to pray and prophesy.

Children’s ministry begins after worship when they are signed into our system by fully DBS checked team and are taken to the kids space. Communication to the media desk (in the main Church) is in place should a child need their parent.

Children’s church currently accommodates YEAR 1 to YEAR 6.

YOUTH

We inspire young people to follow Jesus, love God and others, and change the world.

Jesus provides young people with purpose, hope, freedom, and a secure identity. and we believe that our youth will be be future leaders and trailblazers.

We offer space for young people to serve, deepen relationships and participate fully in the Church. There are youth nights and events including ‘Dreaming the Impossible’ Youth Festival and our whole church retreat.

Youth are encouraged to attend Sunday mornings and have their own youth Church on Sundays at 5pm in Wesley’s Lounge.

Our vision for kids is...
To see them adopt the values of vineyard and become significant and valued members of the church in their own right.

Our aim is to see the children grow to:
Be full of faith and love for their heavenly father, fostering a personal and intimate relationship with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Be generous and loving, living in a way that sets them apart.

Be independent worshippers, who are excited by faith and church. Be aware of their uniqueness, gifting and significance as children of God.

We will do this by:
Offering genuine teaching that allows for children to ask questions and develop a deep understanding of God's character and will for their hearts. To not shy away from questions around theology, but invite children to explore the depths of the christian walk.

Opening spaces for children's spiritual maturity to develop, through inviting the holy spirit to come and giving space opportunities for children to take ownership over prayer times.

Exploring a variety of ways to worship, allowing the children to discuss their innate passions for expression.

Give opportunities for children to serve, practically, in order to understand what a life of generosity may look like. Empowering children's uniqueness by fostering a respectful culture that allows children to be themselves.

Our provision further aims to reach a wide range of age groups, making sure activities are age appropriate, allowing all children to benefit. We are SEN aware and are inclusive.

We also create a safe and happy environment for children to experience the love of God in a tangible and memorable way.