The United Reformed Church is launching a new initiative to get more children into places of worship. 

The denomination is concerned about the dwindling number of young congregants, and is looking to reaffirm its commitment to Christian children.

Sam Richards, Head of Children and Youth Work within the United Reformed Church (URC) is keen to see the ministry modernised in order to better understand the young children it caters for. 

At present, only 21 per cent of URC attendees are children. 

All local congregations are invited to 'Pray like Hannah' across the month of July for children. 

The initiative is based off the diligent prayer of Samuel's mother, Hannah, in the Bible. 

The commitment is part of the 50th anniversary of the URC. 

Sam explained the aims to Premier Christian News, saying: "The statistics around then the number of adult Christians, active adult Christians, who would say they came to faith before the age of five.

 "The vast majority of people come to faith before the age of 18. 

"Those in the very young years, it's much higher than most people imagine. 

"...It's incredibly important that churches are supporting families in enabling children the opportunity to experience, explore and express faith from absolutely the word 'go'.

"No one is too small to be a member of the family."