Children's Liturgy of the Word

Children's Liturgy of the Word is a part of our regular Sunday Mass that enables children to hear God’s Word and respond to it in a manner appropriate to their age and understanding. It is a part of the regular Sunday Mass, adapted to the abilities and needs of children. The style is engaging and interactive. Jesus himself recognized that children have a pure spiritually, and he made them the primary spiritual model for all believers.

The celebration of the Liturgy of the Word with Children follows the same structure as the Liturgy of the Word for the entire assembly. In fact, it begins with the Introductory Rites, which are celebrated in the large assembly, where the children are seated with their families. After the Introductory Rites, the priest invites any children wishing to participate to join in procession with their leader as they go to the worship space set aside for them. They return after the Prayer of the Faithful, assist in presenting the gifts during Offertory, and continue to celebrate the Liturgy of the Eucharist with the entire community.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that the primary goal of our faith development should be “communion and intimacy with Jesus Christ.” The Catechism states: “Christ the Incarnate Word and Son of God is taught – everything else is taught with reference to him.” If we want our children to begin to develop a relationship with Christ, we have to find ways for them to come to know him.