What do you think...

[Jerry]

Then the solution would be to have a proper balance - not neglect the children, and not focus solely on the bus kids to the exclusion of their family and other responsibilities.

[HappyChristian]

Ugh, We don't have programs.

But, regular church services is not for entertainment and programs. Any entertainment and programs should be special events held outside of regular scheduled services.

Special events, singing and or programs, held outside of regular scheduled services is a great time for fellowship and brings all members closer together. It is also a good time for visitors, if they will attend such an event, they just might attend regular services. Of course at such events there should be a short devotional, not a sermon.

Regularly scheduled Church service is not for fun and game. Although with the young children one does have a bit of leeway, if you will teach them in an entertaining manner they will learn more and will be ready to attend nest time week, but that does not mean you turn their classes into fun and game.

Agreed!

- But I do just want to clarify - I think when Suzy is talking about programs, she means things like Sunday School, Jr. Church, Master's Club, etc., not entertainment. At least, that is the impression I got.

[kevinmiller]

I know families who stayed out all day and into the night bus calling ,then they were up early the next day and on the bus .Then it was on to teach SS then onto Junior church ,back to the bus ,they hardly saw each other or the kids .
All in the name of working in the church ,yes the may of helped some kids ,but in the end they lost their own .
Thats a sad but true fact .

And it's one of the many problems with programs. The program becomes more important than the relationship. Now, I know that this isn't the case in every church and I think that a limited amount of programs can be beneficial but I do not believe that the family should be separated in the church. Everything that the church does should be to promote family unity and family discipleship. Families grow together, therefore they should be discipled together.

[SimplyComplex]

I didn't read the whole thread, but I put Absolutely not since it was the closest thing to what I think... As a general rule, its not a good idea though there might be special times when its ok.

[LAF]

And it's one of the many problems with programs. The program becomes more important than the relationship. Now, I know that this isn't the case in every church and I think that a limited amount of programs can be beneficial but I do not believe that the family should be separated in the church. Everything that the church does should be to promote family unity and family discipleship. Families grow together, therefore they should be discipled together.

Its very sad to hear these stories and looking back I see the problems .When you are in the situation you do not see it happening and even after a long time you still didn't realize that was the problem.