Whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me. -Matthew 18:5
We seek to provide spiritual formation for our children through education, worship, and connections in our community; to bring families together for formation, fellowship, faith, and 
fun; and to celebrate and nurture the spiritual milestones of our children.
What are the worship opportunities for Children at St. Thomas’?
Worship is the center of our church community, and as such, children are welcome at all of our worship services! If you are looking for a service geared specifically toward families with young children, check out Family Table. Intended for families with young children, Family Table meets every Sunday of the year at 9:15am in McCausland Chapel.
What is expected as far as behavior during worship?
Church is a wonderful opportunity for children to learn how to pray and get involved in a community activity around faith, and also a great chance to continue learning self-control and respect for others. Because this learning is a process, we understand that there will be wiggles and giggles, crying and sighing. There is an Ark cabinet in the Narthex [entry space] that is stocked with coloring sheets and crayons, books and quiet activities. Children are always welcome in worship!
How do I get my child involved with the Chorister program?
What an exciting question! For the Chorister program contact Michael Smith, our music minister at msmith@stthomaswhitemarsh.org. Chorister rehearsals begin (boys and girls age 8 and up) Wednesdays from 4:30pm-5:45pm OR Thursdays from 6pm-7:15pm in Haas Hall. St. Thomas’ Parish Choir rehearsals are Thursdays, at 7:30pm in Haas Hall and Joyful Noise Choir (ages 4-7) takes place on Sundays from 11:15am-Noon in McCausland Chapel.
What happens after Church is over?
Discovery Hour Jr. – 10:00am-10:50pm Pre-K-5th in the Beck Room
Joyful Noise Choir – 11:15am-Noon for children ages 4-7 years old in McCausland Chapel
Teen Text 11:05am-Noon in the Schoolhouse Youth Café
Are there Special Events for Children at St. Thomas’?
The year is full of special events for Children! St. Francis Day Blessing of the Animals, All Saints’ Day, the Christmas Pageant, the Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Discovery Hour Celebration, Messy Church Events, and Vacation Church School during the summer, just to name a few!
How are children included in Outreach?
All during the Church School year, children have the opportunity to get involved in the care and connection with people in need. Our biggest event in the annual PAC-A-THON where we pack between 15,000-20,000 meals through Stop Hunger Now. With ample Outreach projects happening within the life of the parish, children are always welcome to get involved, too. In the past years, Church School classes have taken on individual projects, as well.
What are the ways I can get involved with Children’s Ministries?
The Children & Family Commission would love to help you plug into the vibrancy of the Children’s Programs here at St. Thomas’. There are opportunities for teaching, shepherding, project leading, Christmas Pageant helper, Vacation Bible School assisting, and much, much more! Contact Erika Bower, Director of Children, Youth & Family Ministry for more information at ebower@stthomaswhitemarsh.org .
