Bo Peep February 15, 2017 All Rhymes 0 Comments

Here’s the Church

Here’s the church, here’s the steeple,
Open the door and see all the people.
Here’s the parson going upstairs,
And here he is saying his prayers.

Listen as male British:

Listen as female American:

Posted in All Rhymes, Daily Life & Objects, Historical & Traditional, Play & Action, Songs & Verses

Tagged church, finger play, parson, people, prayer

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Meaning

A whimsical finger play, this rhyme uses hand motions to mimic a church, its steeple, and a congregation. While the text is literal and playful for children, it introduces the idea of a church as a community gathering place. The rhyme focuses on physical structures and people, though, prompting some discussion about whether the “church” is defined by its building or its people.

Origin

This rhyme is of English-language origin, rooted in oral and playground tradition. It’s especially popular in the UK and US, though similar finger plays exist elsewhere. Its physical gestures likely evolved with the verse, making it a classic finger rhyme in Anglophone countries.

Time Period

The precise origin is unclear, but it’s widely attested by the late 19th century and may have earlier oral roots. It became particularly common in the 20th century, circulating through schools, Sunday schools, and families.

Why It Became Popular

Its combination of memorable, rhyming lines and engaging finger movements made it highly appealing for young children, supporting both language and motor skills. Its spread was aided by its adaptability and the ease with which adults could teach and perform it anywhere.

First Known Publication

No definitive first printed source is identified. It was collected in various nursery rhyme anthologies and hand-game books in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but its exact point of entry into print is uncertain.

Structure and Style

Meter: Iambic dimeter/trimeter
Rhyme Scheme: AABB
Line Count: 4
Style Notes: Very short, with each line closely paired to a finger action. Simple language and vivid imagery designed for easy recitation and movement.

Themes

Community and gathering
Observation
Religion/church life
Playful imitation

Language Notes

“Parson” is an older English term for a clergyman or pastor.
“Steeple” and “prayers” introduce simple church vocabulary.
The rhyme’s language is straightforward, ideal for early learners.

Moral or Lesson

None clearly intended, but encourages imagination, community awareness, and playful engagement.

Historical or Cultural Notes

The rhyme’s prominence reflects the architectural and social importance of churches in historic British and American towns, where steeples dominated skylines and congregational gathering was central to community life. The rhyme’s hand motions likely helped children learn about social ritual and religious spaces through mimicry.

Notable Variants

Some versions replace “parson” with “minister” or add extra lines (“close the doors and hear them pray / open the doors and they all walk away”). There are many oral and regional variations.

Appearances in Media or Literature

Widely featured in children’s books, school activities, and teaching guides. Occasionally referenced in discussions about community and the meaning of “church” versus “building”.

Suggested Activities

Finger Play Demonstration: Teach and practice the hand motions for each line—interlocking fingers for the “church,” raising fingers for the “steeple,” and opening hands for the “people.”
Community Roleplay: Assign roles (parson, people) and act out a church scene with simple props or costumes.
Vocabulary Exploration: Discuss terms like “steeple,” “parson,” and what happens in a church.
Building Craft: Use blocks or modeling clay to create your own church and steeple.
Creative Drawing: Illustrate the church and steeple, with people inside and outside.
Discussion Starter: Talk about what “community” means and how buildings bring people together.

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Here’s the Church

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