All age service

Gracious Lord, we know that we do not always bring glory to your name. For the times when we do not welcome people as we should, Forgive us Lord. For the times when we do not speak in a way you would have us speak, For the times when we do not see people the way you do, For the times when we do not treat people the way you would, For the times when we stop people from coming closer to you, We know that you will forgive us when we truly repent, and in our thankfulness we bring these prayers in Jesus’ name. Amen

Spot the difference!

I had ten older brothers, and when I was young, God showed me in dreams that I was going to be a great leader, which my brothers were not happy about. Who am I?

When I was a young girl I was obedient to God when an angel brought a message that changed my life forever. Who am I?

I gave up my packed lunch for a stranger to use. Who am I?

Mark 9.33-37 Who is the greatest? Then they came to Capernaum; and when he was in the house he asked them, ‘What were you arguing about on the way?’  But they were silent, for on the way they had argued with one another who was the greatest.  21 November 2018

Mark 9.33-37 continued He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, ‘Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.’  Then he took a little child and put it among them; and taking it in his arms, he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me.’ 21 November 2018

Mark 10.13-16 Jesus blesses little children People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them.  But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.’  And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them. 21 November 2018

Discussion questions What do you think Jesus meant when he talked about receiving the kingdom of God like a little child (Mark 10.15)? In what ways can we sometimes be like the disciples in 10.13? What things can hinder children and young people today? In our church/fellowship how do we ‘welcome children in Jesus’ name’ (9.37)? What work do we do with children and young people, and what work do we support? 21 November 2018

Megan’s story ‘I thought he loved me. When you’re in care and you’ve been ripped away from your family, it feels like everyone lets you down and nobody wants you. So when there is love on offer, you grab it. And you don’t let go of it no matter what.’

Megan’s story ‘If I knew someone in need of help, who were in a similar situation to me, I would say: “Give The Children’s Society a chance; it will get so much better.”’ ‘To be honest, The Children’s Society has been a champion for me really. They never gave up shouting for me. And I really needed that.’

Prayers of thanksgiving Why not add images of your work with children and young people here? 21 November 2018

You can add more images here: Your local schools, brownies, scouts, sports teams etc. 21 November 2018

And don’t forget to include those who work and volunteer with children and young people. As well as those who are House Box Holders and lead your church’s support of The Children’s Society. 21 November 2018

Prayers of intercession At the end of each prayer …Thank you, God, for the gift of children. All: Help us to love them the way you do. 21 November 2018