07 April 2011

Mothering Sunday in Helsinki

Last Sunday was Mothering Sunday in the Anglican tradition. We have one English mother in our congregation who reminded me of this several times as the date approached. So I introduced our response time by saying that some children might like to work with the story materials, some might like to work with clay (plasticine), and that some might like to make a mother's day card. Fortunately for all concerned, the child in question did choose to make a mother's day card! (It was joyous and colorful, full of flowers and trees and hearts.)

Just as joyous and beautiful were the photos of last Sunday's Anglican service in Helsinki! These are from the chaplaincy with which my own congregation is affiliated. I got such a kick out of them that I had to share them, even though I wasn't involved in any way, or even present there.

The chaplain wrote, I'm told it's called 'messy church'

One of our best Sundays in a long time! We were delighted that 12 children came to a service that underlined that liturgy and the needs of children are not incompatible. Usually, there is a children's corner at the back of the church. Today, we moved that corner to the sanctuary, and while the regular Sung Eucharist went ahead as usual, Tuomas - with the help of some of the parents - did some painting with the children. 




The congregation was thus encouraged to see the children as in every sense belonging in the midst of the liturgy; and the children - who instinctively seem to know it anyway - greatly enjoyed their chance to teach the adults something. 





Do click on that photo of the Eucharistic prayer, and see how many children you can spot!

1 comment:

  1. seethroughfaith13 April, 2011 06:01

    wonderful .. God really can be IN messy church if we let Him :)

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