Growing Faith Together

We believe every child is a sacred gift, already capable of wonder, prayer, and trust in God. Our hope is that their earliest experiences in church lay foundations for a lifelong friendship with Christ. At St Mary’s and St Matthew’s, children are part of the Body of Christ, not just observers — their laughter, questions, and quiet presence are all acts of worship.

Come as You Are

You don’t need to be a “regular” or know all the words to join us. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve grown up in the parish, we welcome families of every shape and size. Many parents come with questions, worries, or simply hope — and that’s a good place to start. You are not alone.

• New families taking first steps into church life
• Families returning after time away
• Visitors joining us for a single Sunday

Children's Corners

In both churches, you’ll find calm, colourful corners set aside for children to relax and engage at their own pace. They’re stocked with children’s Bibles, prayer books, colouring sheets, storybooks, soft toys, and quiet activities. Whether your child wants to draw while listening or snuggle up with a story, there’s space for them here. Resources are grouped for 4–8s and 8–12s so everyone finds something just right for them.

For Parents with Little Ones

We know church with young children can be unpredictable — but please know, you are never a disruption. Babies cry, toddlers explore, and it’s all part of our worship together. If your little one needs to move or make noise, you're welcome to remain in the pews or head to our soft spaces with toys and room to roam. You are not expected to leave — we’re here to support you.

• St Mary’s: Accessible toilet with a baby changing mat
• St Matthew’s: Vicars’ toilet (changing area in planning)

Looking Ahead

We’re excited about the future of Children’s Ministry in our parish. Together with families, we hope to grow something lasting and life-giving. Here’s what we’d love to develop in the year ahead:

• A simple Children’s Church during Sunday Mass with storytelling and song
• Take-home seasonal packs for Lent, Advent, and Summer holidays
• Child-led liturgies for key feasts and family Masses
• A supportive group of volunteers to walk with our younger members in faith

Special Services for Families

We offer a range of joyful, reflective, and age-appropriate liturgies throughout the year that welcome children fully into the heart of worship. These are not simplified, but accessible and meaningful for every generation present:

• Harvest Festival: A joyful Family Mass with gifts for the food bank
• All Saints' Day: A creative Family Mass celebrating the lives of saints
• Candlemas (Christingle): A candlelit Mass with Christingles for all
• The Crib Service: A gentle Nativity with readings and carols on Christmas Eve
• Children’s Stations of the Cross: Held at 7pm on the third Tuesday of Lent and again in Holy Week

Get in Touch

If you’d like to ask a question, offer a suggestion, or simply find out what’s coming up next, we’d love to hear from you. No pressure, no obligation — just a warm invitation.

Email us at: office@smam.org.uk
Or speak to Fr Stuart or a welcomer on Sunday.