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The Rev. Trayce Potter and the Rev. Tyler Ung, leaders of Love of Children within the United Church of Christ, discussed new approaches to ministering to children and youth at General Synod 35 on July 14. They emphasized shifting focus from merely increasing church attendance among young people to fostering genuine relationships with them.
Micah Potter, a rising third grader, accompanied his mother Trayce at the event and shared his favorite Bible story about Jesus's glory. He expressed enjoyment in attending Synod for its open sharing environment.
Potter and Ung addressed the common church concern, "pastor, we need more children and youth," by suggesting a narrative change. Instead of concentrating on bringing young people into churches solely for institutional survival, they advocated for engaging with them outside traditional settings.
“There are children and youth out there to minister to,” said Potter. “It’s about building relationships with them.”
Ung highlighted recognizing children as integral members of worship communities through ideas like "prayergrounds" where all ages can worship together. The importance of intergenerational ministry was also underscored.
Looking beyond General Synod, Love of Children plans to continue promoting their theme "into the deep" throughout summer 2026, including potential advocacy activities in Washington D.C.
“Surface level is great,” said Potter regarding current efforts at General Synod. “But as UCC General Minister and President Karen Georgia Thompson said, ‘deep is calling to deep.’”
For more information on Love of Children's initiatives, visit ucc.org/loveofchildren/.
