Children and Family Ministry
Children, youth and families are central to our life at All Souls Parish. On Sunday mornings, you’ll find coloring sheets and crayons in each of the pews, soft spaces for kids to move around and play during the service, and a space set aside for them in our side chapel. These are just some of the many ways we seek to celebrate and include children in our communal life. Learn more about our programs below.
“Let the little children come to me and do not stop them.” (Matthew 19:14)
Our Values:
We welcome all questions.
We believe that faith is embodied and participatory.
We make meaning through story and exploration.
Our Goals:
To nurture the innate spiritual gifts of children.
To give children a “home” in the stories and traditions of the church.
To foster curiosity and wonder.
To nourish a strong community of church friends that will sustain them.
Sunday School
We offer Sunday School for children Pre-K to 5th grade each week during our 10:30 a.m. service.
Children begin the service in the nave with their parents, then follow a teacher downstairs.
Classes run ~45 minutes, and children rejoin their families in the sanctuary at the “Peace.”
Our Approach: Godly Play
Our Sunday School for is based on the Godly Play curriculum. The result of a lifetime of research and practice by theologian, author and educator, Rev. Dr. Jerome Berryman, the Godly Play method is a curriculum of spiritual practice exploring the mystery of God’s presence in our lives.
Godly Play is a creative, imaginative approach to Christian formation and spiritual guidance.
Godly Play has a Montessori foundation with 40+ years of research and practice.
Godly Play values process, openness, discovery, community and relationships.
Godly Play models the worship life, stories, symbols and rituals of Christian congregations.
Godly Play allows practitioners to make relevant and personal theological meaning.
Godly Play nurtures participants to larger dimensions of faith through wondering and play.
Faithful Families Events
Throughout the year, we gather for special events open to children and families of all ages. Highlights:
Movie nights
Intergenerational dinners
Annual Big Sur Camping Trip
Parish picnic
Caroling Party
…and more!
Email emilyb@allsoulsparish.org to sign up for our mailing list and receive updates.
Questions about children, family, or youth? Email our Associate Rector, Reverend Emily Boring (emilyb@allsoulsparish.org)
Extra Resources
Justice Resources for Kids
Here’s a list of books for ages 0-8 on racial justice, gender inclusion, and activism.
2023 Advent Booklet
Click here to download our interactive booklet for guided Advent prayers and reflections.
Learning with Kids
Click here for resources on sharing with your kids about generosity, Scripture, gratitude, and sabbath.