Question
Gramps,
We have a common issue that happens among many families in the church. During Sacrament or some form of church activity where it needs to be quiet our children often throw tantrums. My husband believes that we should take them out at the slightest peep. But I was counseled by the Bishop to encourage the children to quiet down during the meeting as to teach them that it’s a good place to be. I agree with the Bishop. What do you think?
Amber
Answer
Amber,
I suppose the Bishop could ask that overly noisy children be removed from the chapel, but ultimately I think the parents themselves are capable of that choice on their own.
Sacrament meeting is a congregational meeting, and though the younger children are not baptized, they are members of the congregation. The LDS Church is a family-oriented faith, and that includes the noisy kids chasing cheerios under the pews.
Also essential to consider is what Christ himself said; “Suffer the little ones to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”
I feel even the newest infant has something us grown-ups need to be reminded of or taught through their actions, noisy or not.
