During the September 14 Sunday service at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Gulfport, our youngest members took center stage—dressed in matching red robes and carrying sacred items from the liturgy—as our beloved “Aco-Lyttles.” This special moment was born from a simple, heartfelt question: young Will Van Kirk asked Father Patrick how old he needed to be to become an acolyte. That spark of curiosity ignited a creative idea, and Father Patrick coined the term Aco-Lyttles to give our younger children a meaningful way to participate in worship and experience the joy of serving.

When Father Patrick shared the vision with me, I remembered a set of children’s choir robes donated to the church after Hurricane Katrina. Twenty-four vibrant red robes were unpacked and dry-cleaned, ensuring every child in Children’s Church could take part.

The children arrived early, greeted by adult choir members and volunteers who helped them into their robes. Father Patrick then entrusted them with processional crosses, offering plates, and the church flag—symbols of their important role in the service. With reverence and excitement, they processed to the front of the sanctuary, embodying the spirit of service and community.

Afterward, the children gathered in Children’s Church to reflect on their experience. Their smiles said it all—but George summed it up best: “That was a lot of fun!” It was a beautiful way to introduce our children to the joy and responsibility of serving God, and to remind us all that leadership and faith begin with a willing heart. I just love my kids so much! I learn so much from them every Sunday!