Creating Access and Inclusion in Worship

Starting a St. Stylianos Children’s Ministry

St. Stylianos Children?s Ministry welcomes children of all abilities and their families. This ministry is dedicated to serving Orthodox Christian children with Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, ADD and various other diagnoses? in an inclusive religious education experience. Monthly meetings are suggested. Friday night from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Sunday school classrooms has worked well for St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Des Plaines.

St. Stylianos Special Children?s Ministry Goals:

• Provide an opportunity for children to participate in a faith based service.
• Reinforce church service structure and etiquette (candles, communion, offering basket, bible, etc).
• Make adaptations to provide a richer experience for all.
• Create a religious experience which is meaningful and comfortable for the children, supported by their families.
• Create an environment which will facilitate children interacting together

Activities include:
Modified Church Service
Snack
Bible Story
Craft
Music Therapy
Social Time

Look to your own parish membership for talented individuals who can help minister to the children of all abilities in your worshipping community. For more information on starting a St. Stylianos Children?s Ministry contact:
St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Phone: 847-827-5510
Fax: 847-824-3455.

Contributed by Eleni Patos, Chairwomen, Inclusion Awareness Sunday, St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church, Des Plaines, IL