Jesus said,
"Let the little children come to me; do not stop them;
for it is such as these that the kingdom of God belongs."
-- Mark 10:14,16
Celebrating Children's Liturgy of the Word enables children to listen to and ponder on the meaning of God's word in a way that is appropriate to their age and level of development. Primary school children and catechists leave the Mass during the time of the Liturgy of the Word and return for the Procession of Gifts. Parents are more than welcome to attend with their child/children if they wish to but it's not necessary.
Children's Liturgy is run in both churches by parents and parishioners in the parish who volunteer their time and assistance.
St Kieran's: every week during the 9.30am Sunday mass during school term (subject to change)
St Cecilia's: every 3rd Sunday during the 9.00am Sunday mass during school term (subject to change)
Children's Liturgy provides an opportunity for children and parents to be able to share after Mass the Word of God they have heard. The parents and the children can thus make the link between faith and life in the following week.
At the beginning of Mass the priest invites the children to gather at the altar and we process to the hall, for about 20 minutes, then we return to the church to resume Mass with the assembled community.
Childrens Liturgy
- Any child of pre school or primary school age is welcome to attend.
- Allows children to listen to the Gospel at a level appropriate for their age.
Structure
- welcome and introduction
- lighting of the candle, Symbol of Christ's presence with us
- reading of the First Reading; sung Gospel Acclamation; reading of the Gospel
- a discussion of the meaning/theme of the gospel
- simplified creed is said
- Prayers of the Faithful may be made up with the Gospel theme in mind
- a song or prayer to finish
Would you like to participate as a Leader ?
Children's Liturgy Planning Sessions are held once a month as an opportunity for the volunteers to come together and explore ways in which we can assist children to hear and reflect on the Word of God and to come up with creative ways to engage our children through drama, song, actions and dance.
One or two people prepare and guide children through the liturgy at the level appropriate to their age. Set up and packing away is also required.
New volunteers and helpers are always welcome. For further information or if you would like to assist as a volunteer please contact the children's liturgy co-ordinators listed below:
Church of St Kieran: Adriana Bowyer 9949-4455
Church of St Cecilia: Sandra MacGeachie on 9948-8558.