What is a family service?

Family services at Porth United Reformed Church are an opportunity for the whole church family, young and old, to come together to worship God and to meet informally over tea and coffee afterwards.

Here is the congregation at the service in October 2006 showing their solidarity with the poor of the world by standing up against poverty.

What does the service involve?

Each Family Service follows a different theme (see the list below) and a different format, but every service will last about 50 minutes, and include:

• A mix of modern and traditional hymns and worship songs
• A chance for children and adults who wish to take part, by means of – for example – a fun quiz or writing out a short prayer or saying something out loud (but you do not have to do any of this if you do not want to). Our Brownies and Guides take part in leading some of the services.
• A reading from the Bible and prayers led by the minister or another worship leader
• A thought or comment applying what the Bible says to our every day lives – sometimes led from the front, sometimes in the form of a film or Power Point presentation
• Colouring sheets, pencils and crayons will be provided with younger children in mind

After each service, you are warmly invited to move into the vestry to share a cup of tea, coffee or squash and biscuits, to chat and to browse at the Fair Trade goods stall.

Is everyone welcome?

Yes! Young and old, active Christian or enquirer, local resident or visitor, Welsh, English or any nationality, you will be welcome. When parents bring a child for infant baptism (christening) or thanksgiving, this usually happens at a Family Service.

Do I need to bring anything with me?

A hymn book will be provided, and there are Bibles in the pews for your use if you wish. There is no charge for the service or for tea and coffee, but during the service an offering of money is taken up for the work of the church, so please bring something to give. You will need money also if you want to buy goods at the Fairtrade stall after the service.

Family Services 2008