Each Sunday, at the 8:30AM and 11:00AM Masses, we celebrate a separate Liturgy of the Word with Children. After the Opening Prayer, the children (pre-school through 3rd grade) are called forward. Fr. Cosgrove gives a Blessing and dismisses them for celebration. In procession, with a child carrying the Lectionary leading the way, they proceed to the Chapel to celebrate the Liturgy of the Word with Children - readings, psalms, songs, a homily - all the prayers of The Liturgy as celebrated in the Sanctuary by adults - but expressed in a way children can understand.
The Sunday readings from the adult Lectionary are written on at least an 8th grade reading level. In 1989, the U.S. Bishops with the approval of the Vatican released a Children's Lectionary written in simplified language. Using these readings as a basis, adult leaders engage the children in the celebration of God's Word. Each Sunday children participate in this effective and important ministry. After praying the Intercessions together, the children return to the Sanctuary to celebrate the Liturgy of the Eucharist with their families.
Liturgy of the Word with Children is a special celebration which enables the young people of our Parish to hear and celebrate the Word of God on Sundays in a setting adapted to their needs and capabilities.
Children have the right to hear what God has to say to them. They have the right because they have been baptized. God wants to speak to children as well as to adults. The problem is that in our liturgy, the Scriptures are proclaimed in adult language which the children cannot comprehend.
This celebration with children will enable them to discover and recognize themselves in the story proclaimed in the Gospels. When they make the discovery from within their experience, they can then thank, and praise, and bless God in their daily lives.
To get more information on the Liturgy of the Word with Children or to volunteer as an adult leader, please contact Mrs. Pat Dixon at (410) 956-2883.
Last updated on October 10, 2006