A Prayer Tent for Children and Families – St Martin in the Bull Ring
At St Martin in the Bull Ring, the church is open six days a week and welcomes many families during school holidays. We wanted children and young people to have a dedicated space to feel safe, reflect, and connect with God.
So, we created a prayer tent in the side chapel. Inside are fairy lights, cushions, bright carpets, low tables, and decorations suited to the season. Each holiday, we choose a theme or story—such as The Lord’s Prayer or He is Risen!—and fill the tent with activities, images, and words.
Prayer Spaces in Schools has been an inspiring resource, helping us shape the experience. This summer we also piloted storytelling sessions, like The Parable of the Sower, where children planted seeds to bring the story to life.
The tent has been used by toddlers, children, teens, and parents:
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Teenage boys have gathered there to pray.
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Children have drawn or written prayers.
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Parents have read Bible stories to their little ones.
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Visitors have asked for the tent specifically, remembering how meaningful it was during earlier visits.
On Sundays, it continues to be a welcoming space for children while their parents enjoy coffee, helping young people feel valued and included. The prayer tent has truly become a space for everyone in God’s house.
Your Go:
If you’d like to host your own prayer space, take a look at our Prayer Spaces ideas in the Schools section of the Resources page.