Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

What is Children’s Liturgy?  

The name ‘Children’s Liturgy’ is a shortened form of ‘Children’s Liturgy of the Word’ which describes what we do much better than ‘Sunday School’ and again is better than ‘Crèche’.  It is not aimed to take children out of the way because they get fidgety in church, nor is it to replace RE lessons.  What the children do in ‘Liturgy’ is to celebrate God’s Word, the first part of the Mass, in a way that is parallel to what is happening in church; to introduce them to god’s love for us.

The Liturgy team prepare the session with the aid of some excellent books, pictures, displays and music.  The aim is to help the children to explore the meaning of the Gospel in a way they can understand.  On their return into the church, the children will share what they have learned in their liturgy session with the congregation, either with showing their artwork or sometimes a song.

The children’s time begin with lighting a candle, quiet to focus, sign of the cross and then a ‘sorry prayer’ (Penitential Rite).  Then the Gospel of the week is read (which is compulsory).  This is normally read from the children’s Missal which can be shorter or simpler version for them to listen to.

After this there are activities, dramas crafts centred around the Gospel reading to make it more meaningful to them.

There is a final prayer or song to bring them back together before they rejoin the congregation at the offertory.

Preschool and Reception – in addition to discussing a simple version of the Gospel, we also practice some acts of reverence with the children, such as making the sign of the cross or reminding the children how to approach the altar for a blessing during Holy Communion.

Years 1-3 – May take part by acting the Gospel, reflecting how it may affect their relationships.

Older children – through discussion explore the meaning of the Gospel in relation to their own lives.

They also enjoy the responsibility of helping the little ones with their artwork, or leading them to and from the church and O’Sullivan Centre.

How can the Parish Community support us?

The children are a very important part of our parish and we would welcome your help.

Encourage children to follow up the liturgy by discussing what they have learned from the Gospel reading.

Join in with their prayer trails.

Donating old liturgical children’s books

Join the Liturgy Group as a leader or helper. You are never too old to pass on your faith!

Volunteers to help with the sessions fall into two categories: those who teach/lead the sessions and those who help out.

(Teaching/guidance is available for those who wish to lead/help and all volunteers are subject to a Criminal Records Bureau check.)

Anyone interested can contact: Sue McMeel Our Parish Secretary