Stay together at Mass
Infants and toddlers are encouraged to remain with their family in church as they are able. They learn to worship by being among the worshipping community.
“Let all who come be received as Christ”
Come as you are · Grow with us
Children at Church
Children belong in the worshipping life of the Church. Bring the wriggles, questions and quiet discoveries—we will be glad to welcome your family.
A full part of parish life
Your children are welcome here
Children are valued members of our parish community, not visitors to an adult service. By sharing in Mass, they gradually learn the language, rhythm and beauty of Christian worship.
Newcomers, returning families, one-day visitors and long-standing parishioners are all equally welcome at St Mary’s and St Matthew’s.
You do not need to register, book or ask permission before bringing a child to Mass.
Practical reassurance
What to expect
Family worship is rarely silent or perfectly organised. We want you to feel at ease while helping children become comfortable in church.
Children’s corners
Both churches have books, quiet activities and resources for children aged approximately 4–8 and 8–12, with space to settle a younger child.
Join in at your own pace
Children may listen, sing, watch, use the resources and learn simple responses. There is no test and no expectation that they remain perfectly still.
The heart of our week
Come to Sunday Mass
Our worship is traditional and sacramental, but the welcome is warm and unforced. At Mass, children encounter Scripture, prayer, sacred music, silence and the presence of Christ alongside the whole parish family.
Family and seasonal celebrations—including Epiphany, Candlemas, Easter, Pentecost, Harvest, All Saints and the Christmas Crib Service—offer further accessible ways to share the Christian year.
- 9.30am
Parish Mass at St Matthew’s, Ashford - 11.00am
Parish Mass at St Mary’s, Stanwell - 6.30pm
Evensong and Benediction at St Matthew’s
There is nothing to get right
Your first visit
A few simple suggestions may help the first Sunday feel easier.
Arrive as you are
Come a few minutes early if that helps, but do not worry if family life makes you late.
Choose a comfortable place
Sit where your child can see, or near a children’s area if you think you may use it.
Follow what you can
The congregation will guide the pattern of standing, sitting and responding. Simply observe when unsure.
Stay for a welcome
If you can, introduce yourselves afterwards. We would be delighted to learn your names.
Common questions
Families often ask
What if my child makes noise?
Please do not feel embarrassed. Babies cry, toddlers speak and children ask questions. If either of you needs a break, you may move to a children’s area and return whenever you wish.
May my child receive Holy Communion?
If your child normally receives Holy Communion in their own church, please speak to the priest before Mass. Children who do not receive Communion are warmly invited to come forward for a blessing.
What should we wear?
Ordinary, comfortable clothing is entirely suitable. There is no special dress code for children or adults.
What about allergies or additional needs?
Please contact the Parish Office if an allergy, disability or additional need may affect your visit or an organised activity. We will listen and make reasonable arrangements wherever possible.
Do children leave during the service?
Children are welcome to remain throughout Mass. When a separate organised activity is offered, its arrangements will be explained clearly and appropriate safeguarding procedures will apply.
Must we complete the form below?
No. The form is only for questions, registration for organised children’s activities, or asking to receive information. It is never required simply to attend worship.
Questions and organised activities
Ask us or register your interest
Use this form if you would like someone to contact you, wish to register a child for an organised parish activity, or want us to understand an additional need. Required information is kept deliberately limited.
Safeguarding matters. Organised children’s activities follow parish and diocesan safeguarding arrangements. Please do not use this form to report an immediate safeguarding concern. Use the parish Safeguarding page for the correct contacts and procedures.
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