Intergenerational
An intergenerational church is one where all ages are working together towards a common goal–sharing and growing in their faith. While we create space for children and young people to belong and identify, we ensure they are embedded in a welcoming, loving and accepting wider church family.
As Ivy Beckwith says; “We need to provide intergenerational communities where children can take risks, grow in their faith, and connect with adults who will love, mentor and inspire them. Frequent and regular cross-generational opportunities for worship, learning, outreach, service and fellowship offer distinctive spiritual benefits and blessings.”
Forming relationships with children is the responsibility of all members of the church–not just their parents or those who are involved in children’s ministry.
As Ivy Beckwith says; “We need to provide intergenerational communities where children can take risks, grow in their faith, and connect with adults who will love, mentor and inspire them. Frequent and regular cross-generational opportunities for worship, learning, outreach, service and fellowship offer distinctive spiritual benefits and blessings.”
Forming relationships with children is the responsibility of all members of the church–not just their parents or those who are involved in children’s ministry.
Workshop
Intergenerational Workshop
Throughout much of Christian history, the Intergenerational church was the norm. However, in the last several decades, we have built a church with distinct silos, separating out our ministry with children, youth and adults. This creative workshop looks at what we have to gain when we reconnect the generations, and what we have to lose if we don’t. Contact us if you would like to know more 
Messy Church
Messy Church is a relaxed style of church suitable for all ages, and has Christ-centred values, based on creativity, hospitality and celebration. If you want to know more about Messy Church in Aotearoa NZ, please contact the National Messy Church NZ Coordinator Debbie Smith www.messychurch.nz www.messychurch.org.uk |
WatchWe have a selection of videos and resources on our YouTube Channel
A video on 'Congregation about Intergenerational Ministry' from the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa, NZ
ListenOur friend Jill Kayser, from Kids Friendly (Presbyterian Church of New Zealand) shared a talk at Kidsreach Sydney on 'Moving your church - embedding an intergenerational culture in your church'
Listen to the talk here |
ReadIf you're interested in all things 'Intergenerational' then take a look at some of our favourite books and resources.
Explore Together is a resource from Scripture Union, available from SUNZ.
"Ministry to children within a healthy intergenerational community can be incredibly transformational, not only to the child, but also the family and the wider community..." - Tammy Tolman, author of Collide
Articles and good reads
Related websites include:
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Families | Games | Intergenerational | Kia Kaha | Lectionary | Liturgy | Media | Online | Prayer | Safety | Seasonal | Transitions | Whanau | Worship
