St Barnabas’ Balwyn is committed to child safe practice. The care, the safety and the welfare of children are embedded in policies and practices which ensure a commitment to zero tolerance of child abuse. When Jesus uttered his beautiful words, ‘let the children come to me and do not hinder them’ (Matt 19.14) he set the benchmark for us. We want to continue to be a church where children and families are welcome and participate fully. We want to be an open community where people of all ages gather and interact. We want to be a church where children and young people are fully engaged and have every opportunity to flourish and grow. We want to be a safe place and to put no barriers in place that will harm or hinder children and young people.

St Barnabas’ Kids & Youth

On Sunday mornings we run age appropriate groups for children during our 10:30am contemporary service. There is a weekly group during term time for ages up to grade 7/8. Here children can explore, learn, and gain valuable insights on their journey of faith. Every fourth Sunday, there will be a combined service joining the 9.00am and 10.30am congregations. Family Services are planned throughout the year where children will participate in different roles. Older children and youth participate in rosters for the 10.30am service. We are also in the process of starting up a youth group. We want our young people to consider and grow in their faith, and participate in worship on a regular basis.

There is also an area available for children under the age of 3 years. Children can play with a variety of toys, colouring, and books supervised by their parents who are still able to participate in the service.