As part of my ongoing commitment to strengthening our Diocese, I initiated a process of engagement and listening to better understand how we can support children, youth, and families in our communities.
My first step was a targeted email campaign, inviting parishes to share their strategies for welcoming children and families into church life. The responses were both inspiring and humbling, reflecting the deep passion and dedication of our church communities.
Following this, I met with parish leaders to hear firsthand about their aspirations, challenges, and ideas for creating more inclusive spaces for families. These conversations reinforced the importance of continuing to collaborate, provide mutual support and build a vision that brings everyone together.
The Blessing Bag Project
One of the key reflections during this time was how we, as a Diocese, could better support families and young children attending church services. As an early childhood educator, I am acutely aware of the challenges children face when asked to sit quietly for long periods. While many churches already provide “busy bags” for children, I wanted to explore the idea of offering diocesan-level support.
This led to the creation of the Blessing Bag pilot project, developed in consultation with church leaders. The project was launched alongside the All Children Are Welcome / Tous les enfants sont les bienvenus campaign during the 2024 back-to-school season. The goal of the campaign was to encourage inclusive practices for families, and the Blessing Bags became a tangible expression of that welcome.
To support this initiative, we distributed bilingual pew cards and posters, along with a short YouTube video (available in both English and French) to communicate this message. A QR code on promotional materials also directed parents to a new online resource: A Parent’s Guide to Surviving Church with Kids.
Revamping the Children and Youth Web Page
In our ongoing efforts to support leaders and parents, we also revamped the Children and Youth webpage to offer more accessible resources. One key addition is the introduction of monthly Diocesan lesson plans, which are free, easily downloadable, and designed to support ministry settings across our Diocese.
To gather further feedback and encourage communication, I circulated a Questionnaire focused on two key ministry projects; the Bible Story Walk and the Blessing Bags.
Parish leaders were also invited to provide general feedback on the broader scope of children, youth, and family ministry efforts.
The Bible Story Walk: A Community Engagement Initiative
The Bible Story Walk is an outdoor art installation featuring child-friendly panels that illustrate biblical stories. Launched in 2023, the first version retold The Creation Story using Godly Play language and has remained on display for two years.
Key Highlights:
• Ten parishes participated in the outdoor installation, and two hosted an indoor version.
• The feedback from hosting churches and visitors was overwhelmingly positive.
• The project engaged community members and piqued their curiosity about faith in an accessible, non-traditional setting.
• A QR code on the panels allowed passersby to connect with the host parish, adding a digital element to the engagement.
While some respondents asked if the project helped increase church attendance, the primary aim of the Bible Story Walk is to meet people where they are—whether they are walking their dogs, commuting, or simply passing by.
Blessing Bags: Feedback and Considerations
The Blessing Bag project allowed churches to offer children a small gift during services that served as both a quiet activity and a token of appreciation.
Distribution Summary:
• 200 bags were distributed across 20 parishes, with 10 bags per parish.
• Contents included a mini magna doodle, wooden cross, Christian-themed stickers, bubble wand, crayon pack, Parent Guide (with QR code for more resources), all packed in a paper bag with a branded sticker.
Feedback Highlights:
• Many parishes expressed gratitude for the initiative.
• The Magna Doodle was particularly popular among children.
• Some noted that the materials were not environmentally sustainable.
• The project helped reinforce the importance of making children feel valued and welcomed in church spaces.
Given the mixed responses, we are evaluating the future of the Blessing Bag initiative and welcome further input. The questionnaire remains open for additional feedback.
Strengthening Communication and Collaboration
A common theme of the feedback was a desire for better communication and collaboration between parishes and diocesan initiatives. In response, we are launching a series of monthly online forums for leaders, scheduled for Thursdays at noon. These forums will provide a space for clergy and lay leaders to:
• Share experiences and insights.
• Discuss challenges and opportunities in children, youth, and family ministry.
• Network, inspire one another, and build stronger connections.
• Participate in informal, facilitated discussions that promote learning and collaboration.
These forums are open to all, whether you wish to actively contribute or simply listen and learn from others.
Looking Ahead: Bible Story Walk Returns
I’m excited to announce that the Bible Story Walk will return this summer with a brand-new story! This year, we’ll feature an illustrated rendition of The Lord’s Prayer, which will tour across churches in the Diocese of Montreal. Stay tuned for more details on how your parish can get involved in this inspiring initiative!
