Family & Community
Children & Young People at St John's, Upper Norwood
At St John's, Upper Norwood, children and young people are a cherished and vital part of our church and wider community. We are committed to offering fun, faith-filled, and inclusive opportunities for children and young people of all ages and abilities to grow in friendship, confidence, and faith.
Sunday Mornings at St John’s – Worship for all ages
Every Sunday at 10:30am, during our Parish Mass, we offer four vibrant age-specific groups:
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PlayTime! Disciples
(Babies, toddlers, reception & Year 1)
Creative play, Bible stories, songs, and sensory activities. -
Junior Disciples I
(School Years 2–3)
Faith-based activities, prayer, and games tailored for early juniors. -
Junior Disciples II
(School Years 4–6)
Engaging discussions, crafts, and interactive learning. -
Youth Church
(School Years 7–11)
A welcoming space with breakfast, games, real-life discussions, and worship.
Midweek & Monthly Activities
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Messy Meals
Wednesdays, 3:30–5:30pm
Join us every Wednesday afternoon in the Community Church Hall for a free, nutritious two-course meal for children and families/carers, board games, crafts, relaxed social time, and a warm, welcoming space to eat, unwind, and connect. -
PlayTime!
Fridays, 9:30–11am
A free, friendly group for ages 0–5 and their carers, packed with free play, role play, sensory zones, crafts, songs & stories, fresh coffee and home-baked treats for grown-ups.
Term-time only -
Messy Church
2nd Sunday, 3:30–5:30pm
A monthly creative celebration for the whole family packed with messy crafts, science experiments, baking, painting and more, a short time of relaxed worship followed by a free hot meal for all! -
Youth Church Socials
Last Sunday, 2–4 pm
A safe and welcoming space for teens to chat, play games, explore faith, and build friendships. Enjoy snacks, fun activities, and relaxed discussions.
Life Events for Children & Young People
At St John’s, we’re here to walk with your family through meaningful milestones in your child’s faith journey:
Baptism (Christening)
We offer baptisms throughout the year for babies, children, and young people. It’s a beautiful way to welcome your child into the Christian faith.
Confirmation
For older children and teenagers ready to take the next step in faith, we offer Confirmation classes and preparation. Come along to the 10:30 am Parish Mass to find out more.
First Communion
Children are invited to prepare for First Holy Communion, usually from age 7+. Speak with a member of the clergy after Mass or email us to register your interest.
Everyone belongs at St John’s
New to Church?
If you’re bringing your child for the first time, just speak to a member of our Welcome Team when you arrive. We’ll introduce you to the right group and make sure your child is comfortable and settled.
Children with Additional Needs or Foster/Adoptive Families
We believe that every child is a gift and deserves to feel safe, included, and celebrated. If your child has additional needs or your family is newly formed through fostering or adoption, we’d love to support you. Please connect with Fr John or Mthr Rachael, we’re here to help.
💗 Support Our Children and Youth Ministries
Our work with children and young people is only possible through the generosity of our church family and wider community. If you'd like to help us grow and sustain this ministry:
Child Safeguarding
At St John’s, Upper Norwood, we are committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for children and young people. All our staff and volunteers are DBS checked and trained in safeguarding to ensure their safety and well-being. To learn more, please visit our safeguarding page or get in touch with us directly.
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You're always welcome at St John's
Whether you're exploring faith for the first time, looking for a church home, or simply want somewhere warm and welcoming for your family, there’s a place for you at St John's, Upper Norwood.
Come along on a Sunday or get in touch to learn more. We can’t wait to meet you.