This time begins with 'passing the peace', or greeting one another, in an appropriate way. Then we share our joys and sorrows, learnings and aspirations. Encourage them to tell brief faith-stories about the theme of the service. If God is saying something to someone for the benefit of the whole church now is the time for them to share it. Then there's a 'hey kids' time.
Covenant is an important ingredient in building community.
A covenant is more than a contract. Covenants bind us together by voluntary intent, and the 'penalties' for breaking the covenant are relational. A covenant is also more than a creed. Creeds tend to be exclusive, emphasising the 'truth' thus excluding 'heretics' who might see reality differently. Covenants on the other hand are relational rather than propositional.