We ON SUNDAY MORNINGS during the 11:30 a.m. Mass we offer Children's Liturgy of the Word. Children are invited to come with Annie Kitching and her assistants to the Gospel Room (off the Gathering Space) to experience this part of that Mass in a way that focuses on them. They return for the Presentation of Gifts, bringing non-perishable items that they (or shyer parishioners) have donated for our food pantry. WE ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO BRING CANNED OR BOXED ITEMS WITH THEM!
WHO IS IT FOR? Children from kindergarten through 6th grade are our focus. We enjoy the presence of older children, as well, because they can offer good modeling and guidance for the younger ones. If children are shy parents, or an older sibling are more than welcome to join them.
WHAT IS THE GOAL? The goal is two-fold. We hope to provide children a positive experience at Mass, providing them with at least one clear idea or concept that they can take away from the Sunday's Gospel Reading. We also hope to allow parents the opportunity to listen to the readings and homily without distraction.
WHAT DO WE DO? We incorporate music, often combined with American Sign Language gestures, to praise God and in a Gospel Acclamation. Games and other engaging activities are included to involve everyone present, giving children a chance to move and use their voices. We hope that CLOW is enjoyable for the children, but we also hope that they will leave taking away some clear message from the experience.
THE SWEETNESS OF GOD'S WORD Typically children come away with a small candy treat; the intention is for children to associate God's Word with joy. We want to reward them for their budding commitment to prayer and community. We hope that a small treat will make Sunday sweet in more ways than one. If parents prefer their children not receive a sweet treat, other items are available. :)
WHO IS IT FOR? Children from kindergarten through 6th grade are our focus. We enjoy the presence of older children, as well, because they can offer good modeling and guidance for the younger ones. If children are shy parents, or an older sibling are more than welcome to join them.
WHAT IS THE GOAL? The goal is two-fold. We hope to provide children a positive experience at Mass, providing them with at least one clear idea or concept that they can take away from the Sunday's Gospel Reading. We also hope to allow parents the opportunity to listen to the readings and homily without distraction.
WHAT DO WE DO? We incorporate music, often combined with American Sign Language gestures, to praise God and in a Gospel Acclamation. Games and other engaging activities are included to involve everyone present, giving children a chance to move and use their voices. We hope that CLOW is enjoyable for the children, but we also hope that they will leave taking away some clear message from the experience.
THE SWEETNESS OF GOD'S WORD Typically children come away with a small candy treat; the intention is for children to associate God's Word with joy. We want to reward them for their budding commitment to prayer and community. We hope that a small treat will make Sunday sweet in more ways than one. If parents prefer their children not receive a sweet treat, other items are available. :)