Parish Children's Menu
Children's Liturgy

The Children’s Liturgy is held weekly during the Sunday morning 10 a.m. mass.  The children are invited by Father to congregate at the altar and then leave the main church for about 20 minutes to hear the Word of God in a way which has been specially prepared for young people.

The three children’s liturgy groups are split by age with each group being led on a rota basis by one of the team.

What do we do?

The group leader prepares the session with the aid of some excellent books, pictures, tapes and CDs.  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 children’s liturgy sessions with the congregation either with a prayer, through showing artwork or occasionally singing a song.

Pre school and Reception – The Bethany Room

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 from the priest or eucharistic minister during Holy Communion.

This session is aimed at the very youngest children with simple songs, prayers and discussion.  We encourage older siblings not to remain in the younger group, but to join their own age group session.  Instead, for the very youngest children that are not yet able to sit and listen to a story, a box of religious children’s books, crayons and paper is available during the session.   Parents are warmly welcome to accompany their child to quietly share a story during the session, participating with the older children when they can.

Years 1 and 2 – presbytery lounge

After reflecting on what they have done during the week, the Gospel is the main focus of the session. There is often an activity reinforcing the message of the Word.  The children are increasingly encouraged to pray using prayers of the Church.

Years 3 and above – presbytery dining room

The older children follow the Penitential Rite and the Liturgy of the Word more closely, praying some of the prayers used in the Mass.  They listen to the readings and the Gospel and, through discussion, explore the meaning in relation to their own lives.

How can the parish community support us?

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

• Encouraging children to follow up the liturgy session by discussing what they have learned from the Gospel reading
• Support the coffee mornings by attending, donating cakes or raffle prizes.  We are holding a coffee morning in the Bethany Room later
• in the summer
• Donating any children’s religious picture books for use by the youngest children during the liturgy session.
• Join the Liturgy Group as a leader or a helper

Any queries regarding the Children’s Liturgy Group, please contact Ann Burgess 01702 545857