Summer
in Psalm 23
A Purposeful Summer of Worship Together
June 21 - august 16
We’re Better in Community
This summer, our church will walk together through Psalm 23 during Sunday worship.
As part of this shared journey, elementary-aged children (grades 1–6) will join their families in the 9:00 and 10:30 worship services. This is a short, intentional season designed to help families worship side by side and grow together in faith.
Nursery and Preschool care will be available during both services throughout the summer.
Why Multi-generational Worship is Important
Our hope is simple: that faith would not be experienced separately, but shared.
Psalm 23 is a foundational passage that speaks to all ages. As families hear the same teaching, sing the same truths, and respond together in worship, we believe God uses these shared moments to form lasting faith.
Children learn in powerful ways by watching and participating. Sitting with you, singing with you, and listening alongside you shapes their understanding of who God is and what it means to follow him.
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
3 He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.5 You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Psalm 23
What to Expect
Everyone is Welcome
Elementary-aged kids will join their families for the full worship service this summer. This is an intentional opportunity to sit together, sing together, and hear God’s Word together as one church family.
A Different Rhythm
This may feel new, and it may take some time to adjust. We encourage you to come early so you can find seats and get settled together. You may notice a little more movement and noise as kids learn to engage, and that’s a normal and welcome part of the process.
Growing Together
Children grow through presence, repetition, and participation over time. We’ll support you and help you prepare your child, involve them during the service, and continue the conversation at home. This is a learning process, not a performance. There’s no expectation to get this “right.”
Support for Parents
We’re offering parent meetings in May and June to help you feel equipped and encouraged. These will include practical ideas, realistic expectations for different ages, and encouragement from other parents. You are also welcome to bring any questions!
Parent Meetings
Engaging Kids in Worship (Grades 1-6)
As we prepare to worship side-by-side this summer in Psalm 23, parents are invited to join us ahead of this series for a conversation led by Laura Stacy, our Senior Director of Connection and Family Ministry, designed to help your kids engage meaningfully in Sunday worship.
Register here:
Frequently Asked Questions
This season may raise different questions depending on your stage of life or experience at West End.
Browse the FAQ below and contact us if you have any additional questions.
For Parents of Young Kids
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That’s okay. This is a learning process—for parents and kids! Stepping out when needed and returning when you feel ready is completely fine.
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Start simple. Talk beforehand about what to expect, encourage participation during the service, and ask a question or two afterward. Small, consistent steps go a long way.
You can also join one of our parent meetings for extra support. -
This is a place where families are welcomed, and where kids are growing into worship alongside the church. Just as you may extend grace to others in a challenging moment, there is freedom to receive that same grace here yourself.
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt. 19:14) -
That’s okay. Give it a try, and keep coming back. Growth often happens in ways that feel new or uncomfortable at first, but over time, it becomes familiar and fruitful.
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (Gal. 6:9)
For Congregants Without Young Kids
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At times, yes. There may be more disruption or noise, but it reflects children learning to participate in worship.
Each of us was once learning in our own way, too. A posture of patience, grace, and even a lighthearted smile can go a long way as the next generation grows into worship. -
Worshiping across generations reflects the fullness of the body of Christ. It creates space to encourage and invest in the next generation.
We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done. (Psalm 78:4)
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That desire is a gift to the church. Consider serving in Kids Ministry, where there are opportunities to invest in children of all ages and walk alongside them as they grow in faith. Your presence and consistency can make a lasting impact.
For Visitors and Newcomers
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This is a short, intentional summer rhythm. Regular Kids Ministry programming will resume after the summer, and many families may find a helpful ongoing rhythm of worshiping together during one service and participating in Kids Ministry and Sunday Morning Class during another.
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Families will be worshiping together in the service. It may feel a bit more lively, and all are welcome to come as they are!
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Yes. Nursery and Preschool care are available during both services throughout the summer.