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,
In the coming month, the gospels continue to reassure us of God’s love for us. They also remind us that we are all called to show compassion to one another and share Christ’s message of hope, peace and love through all that we do.
I wish you all the best in your ministry over the coming month and hope that these resources prove useful as you break open the Word with children.
The Most Holy Trinity (31 May)
We hear how much God loves the world and everything in it. We reflect on how we can show our love for God’s gift of Creation.
Download the accompanying illustration.
The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (7 June)
Jesus tells us that anyone who eats the bread that he offers will live forever. How can that be?
Download the accompanying illustration
Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time (14 June)
Jesus was moved with compassion for people who were worried and looking for help. He sent out the disciples to care for them and asks us to carry on this work today.
Download the accompanying illustration.
Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time (21 June)
God cares for us no matter who we are. Knowing that God is with us in every part of our lives, we find courage and try not to be afraid.
Download accompanying illustration
Saint Peter and Saint Paul (28 June)
Saint Peter was given the keys to the kingdom of heaven by Jesus because of his great faith. We reflect on how we can follow his example.
Download accompanying illustration.
| With very best wishes, |
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Christ Jesus, Bread of Life, feed us with your love and wisdom and move us to help one another, so that all people may have enough to eat. 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