Liturgy of the Word for Children

10:30am at Notre Dame
10:30am at St. Theresa's

Our children are invited to the Liturgy of the Word for Children. They are called forward with their adult leaders, to go to a separate area of the church to explore the Word in their own gathering. The readings are from a Lectionary that has been adapted for the children to understand more easily. During the homily, with the guidance of their leaders, the children are encouraged to talk about what they have heard, analyze it, and look at ways they can put God’s teachings to work in their own lives. Through participation in the LWC, they will learn that the Word is more than just a part of Mass.

The children are dismissed from the main assembly after the opening prayer, and return to the during the offertory hymn. Although it is adapted for them, the children’s Lectionary contains the same readings that are at the main assembly. The Children’s gathering includes: the first reading, the responsorial psalm, usually although not always, a second reading, the Gospel acclamation, the Gospel, a discussion of the readings (the homily), the Apostle’s Creed, and the prayer of the faithful. The children are invited to put an offering in a collection basket. We encourage this offering to be a note or a drawing of something they did, or will do, to show Jesus that they love Him too, as a response to His love for them.

This gathering is a part of celebration of the Mass. It is not a religious education class or a childcare environment. We welcome all children that are old enough to be able to sit quietly for 10 or 15 minutes as an active listener and not be distracting to the leaders or the other children, up to an age where they might lose interest (usually ages 4 to 11).

We will welcome anyone who would like to become a leader, or an assistant. It is a wonderful way to share your faith with God’s most precious gift of all, our children. The commitment is minimal. Leaders take turns every 3rd or 4th Sunday depending on how many leaders at the time. You will be provided with a book that has the readings and guidance for the discussion. You do not have to be a theological scholar or a teacher. It takes 1/2 hour or a little more to prepare and 10 or 15 minutes during Mass. It also counts toward volunteer hours for parents of students of Mount Merici School. We strive very hard to have two adults present so there is always help. It is a great idea for seniors, anyone ready to take that first step into ministry, and any others who have a love for children and the Word of God!

For more information about the Liturgy of the Word for Children, or becoming a leader, please contact the parish office at 872-2281 or email ccmoffice@corpuschristimaine.org.