Childrens liturgy …. what is it?
The Liturgy of the Word for Children (to give it its full title) allows young children to experience the Mass in a different, child-friendly way. It takes place during the first part of the parish Mass, when the children are taken out to the sacristy to hear a children’s version of the gospel story. There is also a drawing activity, a song and a prayer. We aim to engage the children in the gospel story, so that they are attentive to the Word of God, and have a chance to respond to it in their own way. The children return to the main church at the Offertory, and remain by the altar for the remainder of the Mass.

When is it held?
Children’s Liturgy now takes place in the parish of Christ the King twice a month. At the 10:00am Sunday Mass, it is held on the 3rd Sunday of every month except August. At the 6:30pm Saturday Mass, it is held on the 1st Saturday of every month except August. Occasionally, these dates clash with some other parish event, which make it inappropriate for us to hold Children’s Liturgy on that day. In these cases we will postpone it to the next week if possible. Any changes to the dates will be announced in church and in the parish newsletter.

Who can come?
Children’s Liturgy is most suitable for children from about 5 to 9 years, who have not yet received their First Holy Communion. Younger children may come along if their parents feel they are ready to benefit from it. It is a good idea, in the case of younger children and also older children who lack confidence, if they are accompanied to Children’s Liturgy by their own adult. Otherwise, most children come on their own and they all enjoy taking part in something a little bit different. Whilst Children’s Liturgy is very suitable for children who are preparing for their First Holy Communion, it does not take the place of the preparation itself which is provided by the parish Eucharistic Programme. Details of this may be obtained from Fr Pat Madden and from this website.

Many children who have made their First Holy Communion choose to become altar servers, and will thus participate in the adult liturgy each week. Some children who do not altar-serve continue coming to Children’s Liturgy and their services as helpers to the younger children are very highly valued.

Any other questions …. There are leaflets at the back of the church with further information and a registration form. We ask that all children who attend Children’s Liturgy be registered, in order to fulfil the diocesan requirements for Child Protection. Alternatively, just come along to the next Children’s Liturgy !

Ela Yates (Children’s Liturgy co-ordinator)