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,
Another month has flown past and as the Easter season draws to a close, we approach Pentecost and enter May, the month of Mary.
As well as all our children’s liturgy resources, you may find our family prayer activities on the themes of Ascension, Pentecost and Our Lady helpful, if you plan to mark these moments with your group.
Sixth Sunday of Easter (5 May)
Jesus asks us to love one another, teaches us how to care for our friends and tells us we are his friends too. We think about how we can be a good friend to others.
Download the accompanying activity sheet.
Seventh Sunday of Easter (12 May)
Jesus prayed for his disciples – asking God to protect them and help them follow his word. What does this mean for us today?
Download the accompanying activity sheet.
Pentecost (19 May)
The disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit and this gave them the courage to go out and tell everyone about Jesus. We reflect on the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Download the accompanying activity sheet.
The Most Holy Trinity (26 May)
Jesus sent his disciples out to spread his word and told us he will always be with us. We consider how we can share God’s word with others too.
Download the accompanying illustration.
| With very best wishes, |
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Loving God, watch over us, keep us from harm and help us to follow your word. Lead us as we go out into the world to share your word 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