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,
This month we look forward to seeing the days start to grow longer and the appearance of the very first signs of spring. We are also making our way towards the special season of Lent, which starts this year on 18 February.
I hope that these resources, which cover themes of letting our light shine, living in peace with our brothers and sisters and making good choices, will help you as you explore the gospel with children.
Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (1 February)
Jesus told his disciples about the kind of person who makes him happy and who is blessed.
Download the accompanying illustration.
Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time (8 February)
We reflect on how we can be an example for others, like a light shining to show the way, so that people can see that we believe and praise God.
Download the accompanying illustration.
Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time (15 February)
We are all God’s children and we are all part of one big global family. We are called to live in peace with one another.
Download the accompanying illustration.
First Sunday of Lent (22 February)
This Lent we think about how we can make good choices – just like Jesus did in the desert.
Download accompanying activity sheet.
| With very best wishes, |
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God of hope, may we be an example to others so that the light of Jesus shines brightly in the world. We ask this through Jesus Christ your Son, 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