1. Do I have to register or sign my child up to participate? No, anyone of the appropriate age (4 years old through 4th grade) is welcome!
2. Do I need to come to the same Mass every time? CLW is offered at the 8:30 and 10:30 Masses. Your child(ren) are welcome to participate at either time, as your schedule dictates.
3. What if we have family visiting? May their children participate? Yes, as long as they are of the appropriate age and their parents feel they're ready.
4. Shouldn't children who have already celebrated their First Eucharist stay in Mass? Children who participate in CLW are still at Mass; just in a different prayer space for part of it. CLW IS the Liturgy of the Word, adapted for children. Additionally, all of the children return to the assembly before the Liturgy of the Eucharist begins.
5. What if my child needs to use the restroom or is upset and wants to return before it is time? We schedule at least one helper for the leader, so there is an extra person in the room to take children to the restroom or help them find Mom and Dad if needed.
6. May I help with CLW? Parents, other adult parishioners and teens are welcome to assist with CLW. Contact Paulette Chapman, Director of Faith Formation, for more information. 

Children's Liturgy of the Word

Children’s Liturgy of the Word is held year-round during 8:30 & 10:30 am Masses. CLW provides an opportunity for children of catechetical age to hear the Word of God in a version more suited to their development. It is liturgical prayer taking place at the same time that the rest of the assembly is celebrating its Liturgy of the Word. As such, it is not a break from Mass; it is not Sunday School or a time for snacks or crafts. Those who lead Children's Liturgy of the Word are acting as prayer leaders, not catechists. We invite children who are four years old, and developmentally ready to participate, up through fourth graders to participate in in CLW.

After the opening prayer, the children and their leaders are invited forward for a blessing and dismissed to the day chapel. They process to that place of prayer, where they continue to experience liturgy - rituals of silence and song, hearing and proclaiming, processions and reverence for the Word of God. They hear the Word of God proclaimed, geared to their age level, followed by a short reflection/discussion. They recite a simplified form of the Creed and  offer some intercessions (Prayers of the Faithful). They come back to the assembly in time for the Preparation of the Gifts.

There is no registration and no cost to participate.