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Children are an integral part of the congregation at All Saints. We have children who attend church regularly, from birth onwards, through their teens to adulthood. During the weekly 11 o'clock Sunday mass, children may play, supervised by parents or carers, on the carpeted area, where there are books and soft toys. There is also a crèche most weeks for pre-school children, and a Sunday school, during term time for school-age children. The new Family service at 9:30 each Sunday is specifically aimed at families and children. The service is short (30 minutes), with a presentation each week aimed at young children. There are activities, such as making things and processions. The Family service is followed by juice, coffee, biscuits, and sometimes even cakes. Children are invited to join the Serving team which supports the major services on Sundays and on other Festival days. Tinies as young as four or five love to stagger up the aisle carrying an incense boat or a candlestick; it's often amazing how a lively youngster suddenly becomes serious when they are given the responsibility of handing out hymn books or lighting candles!
The Sunday SchoolThe Sunday School operates every Sunday during Bristol term time. It is for children attending primary school (rising 4 -11). It takes place during Solemn Mass, with children leaving after the first hymn for instruction and activities in the Parish Room, and returning for the peace so that they can share the rest of the service with the older members of the congregation. The Sunday School is run by parents, who operate a rota system.
The CrècheThe crèche operates for the benefit of families with pre-school age children. It is located in a room within screaming distance of the church, equipped with a range of toys and assistants. Children rejoin their families for communion and for the concluding part of the service. It is operated by the Mothers' Union.
Young@AllsaintsYoung@Allsaints is a group for people aged 10-16 Years. As well as fun events, such as camping and theme-park visits, there is a more spiritual side, for example, the curates hold a dedicated course of lent discussion groups.
Packing up after the annual camp |
