Ark & Dove Social Story

My Church Day

 

A Social Story About Going to Church

I go to a place called church.

 

Church is a special place where people come together to sing, pray, listen to stories, and learn about God.

My church is called Ark and Dove.

2018 Youth Sunday worship service inside Ark & Dove Presbyterian Church sanctuary

 

It’s a building with friendly people, music, and big rooms. I will be safe there.

When I arrive, I will see people smiling.

 

They might say ‘Hello!’ or wave. I can wave or just smile back if I want.

I sit in a big room called the sanctuary.

 

There are chairs and music. I can sit with my family or friends. If I need a break, I can go to a quiet place.

Sometimes we sing songs.

 

I can sing along, hum, listen, or wear headphones if the music is too loud.

We pray and think about God.

 

Some people close their eyes or fold their hands. I can pray in a way that works for me.

We hear a story from the Bible.

 

The pastor or a teacher will tell us a story. I can listen, look at pictures, or hold a fidget toy.

Then it’s time for the Children’s Message!

 

The pastor or a teacher talks just to the kids. I might go to the front or stay in my seat. That’s okay!

After the Children’s Message, I go to Sunday School.

Godly Play Holy Family

 

There are friendly teachers and helpers there. We might: Hear another story, Do a craft, Sing a song, Have fun together.

Sometimes there are snacks.

 

If I have allergies or food rules, I will tell my teacher.

When church is done, I go back to my family.

 

We might say goodbye to our teachers. I can feel proud that I did something special today.

Going to church helps me feel close to God.

 

God loves me just the way I am. At church, I am safe, welcomed, and included.