Children are always welcome at worship at St. Paul’s. Some families prefer to sit near the front on the left of the church so that their children can see and hear without obstruction.  This area also is convenient to the bathrooms and Nursery, accessible through the double doors on the left next to the Lady Altar.  The ushers can supply coloring books and crayons for children on request. Wherever you choose to sit, be assured that we consider an occasional cry to be the sound of a healthy and growing parish, and want you to feel at home with us. 

Children, including infants, who have been baptized are welcome to receive Communion at their parents’ discretion.  For infants, this is done by having the cup bearer dip his or her finger into the chalice, which is then placed in the child’s mouth.  Older children may receive either the bread or the cup or both, at their parents’ direction.  They may also intinct by holding the host out for the cup bearer to dip in the chalice and place on the child’s tongue. Children who are not receiving communion are welcome to receive a blessing, which is indicated by having them cross their arms over their chest. If your child is not baptized, feel free to speak with a member of the clergy.

Childcare for younger children is available in the Nursery every Sunday at the 9:00 and 11:15 Masses, and at most special services throughout the year. For older children, St. Paul’s offers a complete program of children and youth formation from pre-K through high school.

For parents, St. Paul’s has a Parenting Group, and the Fidelitas group for newly married couples, some of whom also are parents of young children.

(Photo: Janet Wamsley)For more information about programs for children at St. Paul’s, please contact Fr. Humphrey at humphrey@stpauls-kst.com or 202-337-2020 ext. 11.