Traditionally, the parish catechists would lead little children at the start of 10:30am Mass into the parish centre. The children would spend the first part of the Mass (Liturgy of the Word) there. Children would sing children’s hymns and catechists would present that Sundays readings to the children in a simpler language. The Gospel reading would be solemnly shared and in place of the Homily, the children would have one or more activities (art/craft, acting, singing, watching a video, etc.) to internalise the Gospel message. The children would then return to the church at the Liturgy of the Eucharist and join their parents for the rest of the Mass.
As the number of parishioners grew, the frequency of the Children’s Liturgy reduced. This tradition stopped altogether during the pandemic. It has not resumed, primarily due to the large numbers of Mass attendees makes movement of the children in and out of the church unsafe. The need for seats for the large numbers mean that children often have no place to sit upon return to Mass.
Until it becomes possible for us to resume Children’s Liturgy, the parish offer online resources for parents who wish to share the Sunday gospel with their little children at home. Immediately below this message are the resources provided by CAFOD for children’s liturgy.
Further below, one will find links to other online resources and at the very bottom, one will find linked videos from the Mark 10 Mission to show your children.
Dear parent,
Spring is in the air and new life is all around us, as we get ready to celebrate the Risen Lord at Easter.
In amongst the Easter eggs and other treats, I hope that these resources will help you to explore the joy of this season with the children in your parish or group.
Easter Sunday (31 March)
We celebrate because Jesus is risen from the dead. We are filled with hope and joy and we look for new life.
Download the accompanying activity sheet.
Second Sunday of Easter (7 April)
We think about how Jesus brings us peace and how we can share this peace with others.
Download the accompanying activity sheet.
Third Sunday of Easter (14 April)
The risen Jesus ate some fish with his freinds and gave them a special job to be his witnesses. We think about the people who have shared the story of Jesus with us.
Download the accompanying activity sheet.
Fourth Sunday of Easter (21 April)
Jesus is a good shepherd who knows and cares for all people. How can we care for others?
Download the accompanying activity sheet.
Fifth Sunday of Easter (28 April)
We reflect on what it means when Jesus says he is the vine, and how he gives life to us, his branches.
Download the accompanying activity sheet.
| With very best wishes, |
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Loving God, help us to understand more about you so that we can share your love with others. Amen. |
The below are links to online resources to help families follow the Liturgy of Mass on Sundays and to pray with your children at home.
- Children’s Liturgy Resources from CAFOD – CAFOD
- Diocese of Westminster Resources for Children’s Liturgy.
- General Resources for Families – Catechesis at Home.
- The Mark 10 Mission
This page will be updated with the dates of the Children’s Liturgy programme in the parish as soon as it is available
If you would like further details, please email Lionel at: hounslowcat@rcdow.org.uk