CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD
Children’s liturgy of the Word is the vehicle by which we assist small children (usually from kindergarten to grade two) to encounter the Word of God of any particular Sunday in an age appropriate manner.
What does it look like?
Children’s Liturgy of the Word is inclusive of children in all of the parts of the Mass from beginning to end with the exception of the Liturgy of the Word. At all other times they are seated with their parents and siblings. Following the Opening Prayer of the Mass, which children are included in and part of, the priest calls the children who wish to go to the Children’s Liturgy to come forward. He then has an opportunity to speak with them, perhaps asking them a question about the decorations and colours the Church is using and what season this might be. An adult leader is presented with a special Lectionary for Children (not a bible) which contains the same Gospel reading the grown ups will hear but is written in a style and language children can understand and relate to. They will then process out together, led by the adult leader and a second leader following the last child and they go to a place designated as the room for Children’s Liturgy with carpeting so that children may sit on the floor.
The leader begins with a prayer that everyone would open up their minds to listen to Jesus’ words to us and that we might be able to learn from Jesus how to live better lives. Then the reading(s) are read. This is usually followed by some brief discussion with the children about what they have just heard and is an opportunity for them to ask questions if they have any – and they always do. Sometimes a specific activity is planned or the children make something related to the gospel story they heard.
Meanwhile, in the church the readings, the psalm and the gospel have been proclaimed and the priest or deacon gives a homily. Following the homily and as soon as the recitation of the Creed is begun, an usher goes to the leaders of the Children’s Liturgy which tells them they have to begin to wrap up their session. The leader leads the children in a prayer of thanksgiving and they are led back to the church doors. As soon as the Prayers of the Faithful are completed (which ends the Liturgy of the Word) the children return to sit with their parents while the collection is being taken up and the offertory gifts are being presented.
What it is not…
Children’s Liturgy is not baby sitting or a means of getting restless, noisy children out of the church to give their parents and the parishioners a break. It is not a play time for children or a chance for them to meet other children of the parish. And it’s not just bible story reading for children but exposing the children to the same readings that the Universal Catholic Church hears every Sunday.
How often does this ministry occur?
Children’s Liturgy of the Word usually takes place at one of the designated masses on Sunday, ideally the one where most children of the parish are present. While the ministry should operate throughout the whole liturgical season its presence at the church is almost wholly dependent upon the volunteers.
Who should get involved?
If you are good with children, love the Scriptures, and if you think that God might be calling you to participate in this most important ministry, please contact the parish office at 905-655-3286.