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.
As we begin gathering for public worship at Mass again, a few words for families to prepare. Children’s Liturgy of the Word is not meeting a this time and we invite families to worship together during this time. We recognize the transition back to Mass at the church will be rocky for some children (and adults). To help facilitate this transition, we have prepared Welcome to Mass bags, available for any children who want them. We ask that families take the bags home with them and bring them back each week to use during Mass. Children’s Liturgy of the Word at Home will continue to be posted on Facebook and here, on this webpage. We invite all families to take advantage of this resource!