In 2023, Strathfieldsaye Community Church commenced a new Sunday afternoon ministry as there was a real need for a ‘child friendly’ service. Prior to this, a number of families with younger children been attending our 9.30 am traditional service.

We chose to hold the service at 4pm, so that we wouldn’t be competing with families having a lazy start to Sunday, or with the different sports that are played in Strathfieldsaye on Sunday mornings.

Our afternoon service meets on the first and third Sundays of the month, and if there is a fifth Sunday, we meet for a social time to build relationships. The service is quite contemporary and varies each time but still contains the typical elements of a church service. We don’t always have a traditional sermon, but a teaching time that can be interactive, with lots of visual displays on the screen to be engaging. Sometimes we are all in together, sometimes we break into small groups (children, teenagers and adults) and discuss a particular topic. On some weeks we make craft together, or just the kids make craft.

During some services, we give an explanation of why something might be included, to give visitors and children a greater understanding of God’s Word and how we can worship Him. This helps break down the barrier of tradition.

After the service on the first Sunday of the month, we share a meal, normally pizza. On the third Sunday of the month we share nibbles, always allowing plenty of time for fellowship.

We started the 4pm service in March last year and by the end of the year, we averaged 35-40 people. We have a number of families with primary and secondary school students, and also some retired parishioners who attend.

It has been so encouraging to receive support from the 9:30 am congregation in starting the new service. It is their support and prayers that have seen new families join us at 4pm. Many families have committed to the service by helping out each fortnight, giving their tithes and offerings, and helping out at church working bees.

There have of course been challenges, one of which is sharing the load. There are opportunities for more people to be involved in the 4pm ministry, so that the same people are not over stretched.

Another challenge for me personally, is trying to keep services creative and engaging.

We would appreciate your prayers for:

• us to disciple the children and teenagers in age-appropriate ways.
• enough leaders to lead our children and teenagers.
• the ability to engage with families in our community.
• families to continue to come to church.
• families to make God a priority in their households.