Embracing the Holy Sound of Children in Church: A Reflection on Understanding Holiness Through Their Eyes

Embracing the Sacredness of Space: A Reflection on Children in Church

“If a child doesn’t understand that church is a holy space, they shouldn’t be in church.” This sentiment, relayed to me recently at the church door, resonates with many traditional views regarding worship and its decorum. As we stand on the cusp of societal evolution, it’s imperative to recognize that the definition of “holy space” extends beyond silence and stillness.

The Challenge of Neurodiversity in Sacred Spaces

On a typical Sunday, my four-year-old, bursting with his unique gifts and quirks (think pink hearing aid and boundless energy), expressed himself vocally during a service meant for quiet reflection. Despite the discomfort this evoked in some, it’s essential to remember that his exuberance is not a deficit but a different way of processing his surroundings.

For him, church isn’t merely a solemn building; it’s an overwhelmingly rich environment where he finds solace in the textures and vibrations of sound. He prefers standing at the back, molding Play-Doh, or helping out by diligently cleaning the church, blissfully unaware of any perceived chaos. In his actions—mopping floors, setting up “Wet Floor” signs, and vacuuming up any crumbs—he practices a form of worship that many overlook.

Rediscovering Sacredness Through a Child’s Eyes

Children, in all their innocence and curiosity, often possess a remarkable awareness of holiness that transcends mere understanding. They can teach us to pause; to smell flowers, marvel at the intricate details of a tree’s shadow, and experience pure joy in the splash of a puddle. Their inclination to express gratitude, whether through lighting a candle or recounting the adventures of a beloved pet, reflects a profound understanding of the divine.

When we recently lost our beloved Labrador, my son’s innocent misconceptions about death led to profound revelations about God. He imagined our dog flying to heaven on an aeroplane. Through cherished narratives like Air Miles and Dog Heaven, he grasped the comforting presence of God enveloping us all, exemplifying how a child’s perspective can illuminate the essence of faith and love.

The Invitation to Embrace “Holy Noise”

In Matthew 18:3, Jesus invites us to “become like children” to enter the Kingdom of heaven. This invitation does not come with caveats about behavior or silence. Instead, it challenges us to embrace a mindset open to wonder, joy, and gratitude.

What if we redefined our understanding of “holy space”? Perhaps true holiness lies not in the absence of sound but in the fullness of love and compassion. Children, with their joyful proclamations and unfiltered expressions, remind us that the sacred can coexist with the noisy and chaotic.

Creating an Inclusive Sacred Space

Rather than viewing a child’s voice as a disruption, we might see it as a vibrant invitation to engage with our spirituality. Imagine how our worship could transform if we embraced the sound of children, understanding that each shout and giggle is a reminder of life’s vibrancy and grace.

Our churches should be spaces where every voice is not only welcomed but celebrated. The next time a child’s exuberance fills the sanctuary, let’s practice receiving it as a joyful reminder that heaven is alive with sound—the roar of waters, the hum of praises, and the sweet laughter of our littlest ones.

Conclusion: An Invitation to Wonder

So how do we, as a faith community, expand our understanding of holiness? How do we infuse wonder into our daily lives, ensuring that we are continuously aware of the beauty surrounding us?

Let’s make it a practice to express gratitude more openly, to seek God’s presence in the simplest moments, whether it’s cleaning floors, experiencing bliss in simple pleasures like biscuits or clouds, or comforting those in need.

As we gather, may we remember that children teach us to keep our hearts open. In their laughter, we find echoes of joy in heaven. This Sunday, when you hear a child’s voice, let it be a call to remember the sacredness of noise, beauty, and community. In this sacred noise, in the joy of children, we find a glimpse of the Kingdom of heaven that Jesus so lovingly invites us to embrace.