Jesus said," Let the children come to
me. Do not hinder them. The kingdom of God belongs to such as
these" (Matthew 19:14).
The Children's Liturgy program attempts to be the epitome
of our Lords spoken words in this biblical passage. Children's Liturgy is
designed to develop a child's awareness and knowledge of scripture; as
well as, enlighten their own insight into scripture. With the help of the
Holy Spirit, and 2 adult laypeople as facilitators, the children explore
our loving Lord on their journey of faith.
During each mass, children (ages 5-9, and sometimes older
youth assistants) are dismissed by the priest, after the opening prayer.
With their leader, they read the mass readings, responsorial psalm, and
Gospel. The children are often asked to read the scripture aloud, so they
feel involved. The children are lead to reflect upon the readings in their
own childlike fashion. The leader may use various techniques to make
scripture "come alive" for the children. For example, sometimes
children act out the narration of the scripture in a skit. This often
solidifies their knowledge and gives them an "experience" of the
bible. Props, musical instruments, impromptu skits, scriptural bible
stories, puppets, and flannel board presentations are some of the methods
used to help children understand the readings and Gospel.
The children return to the mass after the petitions are
read to take part in the Liturgy of the Eucharist with the rest of the
community. Often times, children are chosen to carry the gifts up during
mass. This makes them feel part of the mass and helps them to learn
stewardship. Please consider volunteering for the Children's Liturgy
Program and embark upon an exciting journey of faith with the Children of
St. Paul!
