How People, Spaces, and Experiences Shape a Child’s Sense of Belonging as They Discover God at Work in Their Faith Community

Written by Rev. Dr. Tanya Campen

Last year, I had the opportunity to participate in a learning experience alongside colleagues, reflecting on leadership, culture, hospitality, and the ways environments shape how people feel and engage. As I observed and reflected, I found myself paying close attention to how people, space, and shared purpose come together to form something meaningful.

I left with a question that continues to guide my work:

What if children were as excited to go to church as they are to go to Disney—if not more?

Not because church becomes entertainment—but because it becomes a place where they feel known, connected, and eager to return.

I watched children run in with joy, naming what—and who—they were excited to see and what they were excited to do. I noticed how even something as simple as a nametag told their story—first visit, birthday, big sister—small but meaningful markers that said, we see you. I saw cast members pause, kneel to their level, and greet them by name, honoring their story: “Welcome—are you enjoying your first visit to Disneyland?” or “Happy birthday—we hope it is magical!”

And in those simple, relational moments, something deeper was happening—children were making meaning:

I am seen. I am welcome. I belong.

Children are always making meaning. In gathered community, they are discovering God and their place within the Body of Christ. What they see, hear, and experience shapes their theological awareness—of who God is and who they are becoming.

This is holy work.

So maybe, our work is not simply to entertain but perhaps including children in worship involves something bigger- holier:

Knowing your why—and helping others name theirs.
Not just the church’s purpose, but a personal sense of call. A greeter who understands their role as welcome doesn’t simply hand out a bulletin—they kneel, make eye contact, and say a child’s name with care.

Equipping leaders in every role to notice, welcome, and include.
When an usher helps a child find a place where they can see, or a worship leader acknowledges children and invites their participation, the message is clear: you belong here.

Designing with children in mind—what they see, hear, touch, and are invited to do.
Children make meaning through engagement. A visible space, a simple invitation to respond, or being recognized and celebrated—these moments shape how they experience God and community.

When we attend to the people, spaces, and experiences we cultivate, we are not simply welcoming children—we are making space for them to encounter the love and grace of God
and discover they belong.