Children's Liturgy of the Word (CLOW)

"They brought children to him to touch. The disciples rebuked them, but when Jesus saw this he was indignant, and said to them, 'Let the children come to me; do not try to stop them; for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you, whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.' And he put his arms round them, laid his hands upon them, and blessed them." Mark 10:13-16 Through Liturgy of the Word, we seek to involve the children in the liturgy--the joy of song, the holiness of silence and the richness of ritual–the colors of the liturgical seasons, refreshing water, oil, fire, and light. As friends, neighbors and family within the parish, the children bring to us the simplicity of God's Word as scripture stories are told, retold and discussed at home, on the bike path, in the car, at bedtime. We seek to show each child that they are important participants in the liturgy of God's Word, thereby enriching the entire parish family. We seek to show them the Wonder of God's Word.

At many U.S. parishes there has been the practice of "Children's liturgies of the Word," when, after the opening rites, the young children leave to a church hall to have their own version of the Liturgy of the Word. At the beginning of the Liturgy of the Eucharist, the children return to the church.

When: during the 10:30 Sunday Mass

Purpose: 1) To help younger children understand the Scripture readings on their age level; 2) To free parents of younger children, who can be distracting during the Liturgy of the Word and Homily, so that they can focus on the readings and homily on an adult level.

Age Groups: We offer the program for children in grades 1-3 (primary grades). Even children who have made their First Communion can attend, because they return to the church for the Liturgy of the Eucharist. It can be helpful for a parent to come with them for the first time.

If you have any questions about the program, please call the parish (419) 625-3698.