Children Should Be Welcome in Church, Mom Says
A mother, Xyreene Maie Joy Navalon, shared a frustrating experience she had while attending Mass with her young child at San Bartolome Parish in Malabon. She and her child arrived early to avoid the usual crowd, knowing that her energetic child might move around and cause a distraction later. Since the church was mostly empty, she felt it would be manageable to allow her child to walk briefly while keeping a close eye on him.
Despite her careful attention, she claims a female usher approached and said that children were not allowed in the church. The usher allegedly tried to force her child outside, leaving the mother upset and feeling humiliated.
She insisted that she was supervising her child responsibly and that he was not disturbing the service. She believes the church should be a welcoming place for everyone, including children, and that guidance should be offered with patience, not harshness.
Xyreene recounted a similar incident at another church, where she and her child were again told that children were not allowed. She expressed frustration that some churchgoers act as if only certain people are allowed to attend, while parents and children are treated as nuisances. She argued that children are naturally curious and active, and that being responsible parents does not mean neglecting them.
Meanwhile, netizens have expressed outrage and concern over how children were reportedly treated in the church. Many criticized the staff for enforcing rules that seemed unfair or unnecessary, especially toward young children who are naturally curious and energetic. Some emphasized that children should be allowed to participate in services, noting that they are a blessing and belong in God’s house, citing biblical teachings. Others suggested reporting the incident to church authorities to ensure accountability and prevent similar situations in the future.