Welcome! We are so delighted to have your family join our parish community. Children are a profound gift to the Church, offering unique and precious contributions to our worship, fellowship, and discipleship. Jesus Himself affirmed the value of children, welcoming them and declaring that the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Their innocence, simplicity, and genuine faith inspire us all to follow Christ with trust and wonder. They are not just the future of the Church but vital participants in the present, reminding us of God’s kingdom at work among us.

As a parish, we are honored to nurture their spiritual growth by teaching them about faith, the Bible, and the ways of Jesus. In turn, their presence blesses us, inviting us to embrace the joy and faith they embody. It is a privilege to walk alongside them—and you—as we grow together in Christ. We celebrate the life and vibrancy your children bring to Good Shepherd and hope to encourage you, as their parents, with smiles of support and grace!

Your Quick Guide to GS Kids

To nurture children’s faith and engagement during Sunday services, we offer the following age-specific classes:

• Nursery-aged children may be taken directly to their class before the service begins and are welcome to remain there until the end of the service.

• Children ages 3–12 begin in the sanctuary with their families, joining in the opening worship and songs. After the Collect of the Day, they join together to process out to their classes. Following the Passing of the Peace, parents are asked to pick up their children from their respective classes. Please remember to bring the security ticket you received at check-in, along with a state-issued ID, for pickup.

All children must be registered and checked in before the service. Our warm and welcoming staff and volunteers are ready to assist you at the GS Kids Check-In Station, located to the right of the steeple entrance, up the ramp.

We’re so glad you’re here and can’t wait to walk alongside your family as we grow together in faith and love!

A Special Note to Parents

Take a deep breath and relax—your children are a blessing! God gave them their wiggles, swiggles, and squeals, and they are welcome here just as they are. If your kids are joining you in the service:

• Sit toward the front, where it’s easier for them to see and engage with what’s happening.

• Quietly explain parts of the liturgy, like the actions of the priest, deacon, or altar servers, to help them understand.

• Sing the hymns, pray aloud, and voice the responses—children learn best by watching and imitating you.

• Bring along a small Bible, notebook, or quiet activity to help them focus during quieter moments.

If you need to step out with your child, we offer a dedicated space just outside the sanctuary to the left. It’s a welcoming spot where your little one can move around while you stay connected to the service. Remember, how we welcome children in church profoundly shapes how they see the Church, God, and one another. Let them know they are truly at home and deeply valued, embodying the love and hospitality of God’s Kingdom.

Finally, show yourself grace. Parenting during worship isn’t often easy, even our clergy sometimes have to step aside to help with their kids—you’re not alone! Your effort to bring your children into God’s presence is a beautiful act of faith. We are here to support you and your family as you grow together in Christ.

FIRST-TIME VISITOR?

Sunday check-in is quick and easy, but if you'd like to make your arrival even smoother, you can pre-register your kids below. We can’t wait to meet you and your family!

Good Shepherd Kids FAQs

Can My Kids Stay with Me?

Children are always welcome to remain in the sanctuary for the entire service. We simply ask parents to be mindful of other worshipers, especially during the sermon. For convenience, there is a dedicated space just outside the sanctuary to the left for children who need extra room to move. We’re so glad your family is here!

What Should My Child Bring?

We encourage children to bring their curiosity and enthusiasm! For children staying in the sanctuary, we provide child-friendly liturgies, activity sheets, and crayons to help them engage during the service. If your child is attending the nursery or an Atrium class, you’re welcome to bring any necessary items like diapers, a change of clothes, or a labeled water bottle.

What If My Child Has Special Needs?

We welcome all children and strive to create an inclusive, supportive environment rooted in God’s love and our parish community. If there are ways we can help your child feel more comfortable and included, we are eager to explore them with you. We also recognize that some children may have needs we are not fully equipped to meet, and we honor the careful discernment involved in these decisions. For questions or support, please contact Laura Griffith, our Director of Child and Youth Formation.

What About Safety?

At Good Shepherd, your child’s safety is our top priority. All volunteers working with children are active parish members who have completed background checks and regular abuse-prevention training. We are committed to providing a safe, nurturing environment for every child. To learn more about our Safe Church training and policies, please click here.

Can I Volunteer in Children’s Ministry?

We’re always glad to welcome new “formation partners”—volunteers who help nurture the spiritual lives of our children. To ensure a safe, caring environment, volunteers must be active parish members for at least six months, complete a background check, and participate in abuse-prevention training. If you’re interested in serving, click here to sign up.