The PCC agreed the following statement in May 2026. This summarises the culture we are working toward in St Mary's. All are truly welcome as they are.

This could easily also apply to adults. Children are people many people can identify with these statements.

Children don’t always remember what happened in church but they do remember how it made them feel.

Nothing we have to say in the service is more important than the children feeling safe, loved, included and accepted.

They may wander, they might not engage straight away but if they feel safe and comfortable and we maintain an accepting and loving presence they will join in eventually.

Don’t underestimate their understanding of God or the relationship that God already has with them.

Listen to them and be open to learn from them.

Church isn’t something that is done to you it’s something you are part of.

They are not the future of the church. They are here right now and part of the body of Christ.