At Our Lady of Lourdes, we believe that faith is caught as much as it is taught. When children grow up surrounded by a warm, active parish community — seeing adults live out their faith, participating in worship and feeling genuinely welcome — something remarkable happens. Faith takes root.
Our children and families ministry is about creating those moments. About making our parish a place where every child feels they belong, and every family feels supported in nurturing the faith they want to pass on.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word
Every Sunday during the 10.30am Mass, our Children’s Liturgy team takes children from the church to the Parish Hall, where the Sunday scripture readings are proclaimed and explored in a way that is engaging, age-appropriate and fun. The children return before the offertory, having reflected on the Word of God in their own way.
Parents are always welcome to join.
The programme runs throughout the school term.
Volunteering with Children’s Liturgy Our Children’s Liturgy team is a dedicated and welcoming group, and we are always looking for more volunteers — whether you can help every week or just occasionally. You do not need a teaching background. Our experienced team will support and guide you every step of the way.
To find out more, speak to one of our Children’s Liturgy team after the 10.30am Mass on any Sunday, or contact the parish office.
Altar Servers
Altar Servers assist the priest at every Mass — a role open to any young person who has made their First Holy Communion. Serving at the altar is a wonderful way for children and young people to feel actively part of the Mass, develop a sense of responsibility and grow in their faith.
It is a role that many former servers look back on as one of the most formative experiences of their parish life.
Application forms are available from the parish office. Contact us to find out more and to get your child started.
First Holy Communion
If your child is preparing to receive their First Holy Communion, our dedicated preparation programme walks families through this special journey together. Find out everything you need to know on our First Holy Communion page.
Youth Group
As children grow in their faith, our Youth Group gives them a space to continue that journey together — exploring what it means to be young and Catholic in today’s world, in the company of others who share their faith.
The group meets regularly and gets involved in a range of activities throughout the year — from social events and celebrations to service and faith formation. Recent highlights have included planning our Pentecost Picnic, with a Parish Quiz Night also in the pipeline.
The Youth Group is also connected to the wider Spiritan family. Young people aged 18 to 25 who feel called to a deeper commitment to faith and service may be interested in a gap year volunteering opportunity with Just Youth — supporting young people in their growth and development through chaplaincy and community outreach. Visit justyouth.co.uk to find out more.
A Youth Fund supports the group’s activities. Gift Aid donations are welcome via the contactless machines at the back of the church.
To find out more about the Youth Group, please contact the parish office at acton@rcdow.org.uk or call 020 8992 2014.
Getting your child involved
Not sure which of these is right for your child? Come and have a chat with us after Mass — we would love to help you find the right fit. You can also contact the parish office at acton@rcdow.org.uk or call 020 8992 2014.
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” — Matthew 19:14