Children Are Important to Us
At the Open Door, we are dedicated to supporting our church’s families in guiding their children and youth on their faith journeys. Through Biblically-based, spiritual formation, multi-sensory education and meaningful care, we invest in all aspects of their lives, helping them grow in faith, find belonging, and thrive.
Children and Youth in Worship
Because we affirm that all children and youth are a gift of God, created by God and created good; all children and youth are a gift to the whole of the human community: all children and youth have a real faith, and gifts for ministry; all children and youth have the right to be children; and all children and youth are not just tomorrow, they are today.
Children and youth are vital members of our worship community at Open Door. We celebrate their energy and presence in our worship space and invite them to fully engage in all aspects of church life. Our commitment is to actively create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
Time of Learning
Children (PreK–5th Grade): During the sermon, children are invited to their own time of learning, tailored to their age.
Youth (6th–12th Grade): Youth are encouraged to participate fully in worship and are also invited to join the youth group for fellowship and spiritual formation.
Celebrations
Baptism
At Open Door, we honor various approaches that families may take regarding baptism and dedication, recognizing each as a meaningful way to bring children into the church family. Parents may choose Infant Baptism, a sacrament signifying God’s grace and the community’s commitment to nurture the child’s faith. Baptized infants are warmly welcomed into the church; however, they do not become Covenant Partners until they reach the age of Confirmation. Others may prefer Infant Dedication, a symbolic ceremony where parents and the church pledge to raise the child in faith. Unlike baptism, dedication is a blessing rather than a sacrament, and while it does not involve water, it fully welcomes the child into church life. As children grow, those who have not yet been baptized, and wish to embrace the sacrament can opt for Child Baptism, symbolizing their own commitment and understanding of faith. Like infants, baptized children are included as part of the church family but also become Covenant Partners at Confirmation. Through each choice, Open Door encourages families to explore the significance of these steps, and we welcome all children—baptized, dedicated, or not yet baptized—into the full life of the church.
Communion
Caregivers decide whether their child(ren) may partake in communion. However, children are encouraged to come forward for a blessing prayer during that time, whether or not they receive communion.
Mentoring Program and Confirmation
When youth are ready to explore and publicly affirm their Christian faith, Open Door offers a Confirmation Program. In keeping with Presbyterian tradition, this program allows each participant to confirm their baptism and, if they wish, to become a Covenant Partner of the church. Each youth’s decision—whether or not they choose to confirm their faith—is respected and celebrated. Middle and high school students are also encouraged to join the youth group and mentoring program for additional support as they explore their faith and spiritual journey.