Children’s Liturgy is a special way of helping our young children participate in the celebration of the Mass in a way that is accessible and meaningful to them. It’s not just about keeping them busy during the liturgy, but about inviting them into the experience of worship at their own level of understanding.

At its core, the Children’s Liturgy focuses on breaking down the readings and prayers of the Mass so that children can better grasp the message of God’s love. It’s an opportunity for children to hear the Word of God in a way they can relate to, to reflect on it, and to respond in prayer.

Here’s how the Children’s Liturgy usually works:

1. Introduction: The children are invited to come forward after the opening prayer or during the Gloria, and they are led by a catechist or leader to a separate space—often a side room or an area in the church that’s specially set up for them.
2. Liturgy of the Word: The children hear the Sunday readings, but the texts are adapted in a way that’s easier for them to understand. Sometimes the readings are dramatized, or visual aids are used, to help engage their imagination.
3. Reflection: After hearing the readings, the leader usually asks the children questions or invites them to talk about the message of the Scripture. This helps them to reflect on what God is saying to them and how they can apply it to their lives.
4. Prayers of the Faithful: The children may say their own prayers or offer petitions for the needs of the world, their families, and the Church.
5. Return to Mass: After the Children’s Liturgy, the children return to the main congregation just before the Liturgy of the Eucharist, and they rejoin their families for the rest of the Mass. This allows them to be present for the most important part of the liturgy—where we receive the Body and Blood of Christ.

The Children’s Liturgy isn’t just for young children. It can be an important way to help them feel a sense of belonging in the community and to understand that they are part of the Church, too. It’s also a way to cultivate a love for the Mass and for the Word of God, encouraging them to grow in their relationship with Jesus.

In summary, the Children’s Liturgy is designed to help young children engage with the Mass in a more age-appropriate way, so they can experience God’s love and learn how to pray and worship in community.

Children’s Liturgy is held during the 10.30 a.m. Mass during School Terms.

The Children’s Liturgy Team