Liturgy of the Word for Children
It is Jesus himself who welcomes children into the folding of his arms to hear his teaching and share a special intimate relationship with him:
“Let the children come to me—do nothing to stop them.”
The mind and heart of a child is like fertile soil that the seed of God’s Word may fall upon, grow and bear abundant fruit. Often underestimated, young people in a particular way are gifted with an amazing capacity for openness to God. They have a fresh perspective and enthusiasm that can quickly be extinguished if it is not nurtured with diligent love.
Out of their love, catechists, teachers, and volunteer members of Saint Clement church share the scripture readings with children ages four through first grade during the 9:30 a.m. church and chapel liturgies. When the adults are seated to hear the scriptures proclaimed, the children are led to the Fahey center to hear God’s word in their own community. They pray and discuss the meaning of the scriptures and then return to their parents around the time of the collection.
All children are invited who are pre-k through first grade. We encourage second graders to begin to sense all the postures, gestures and rituals of the liturgy with their parents rather than attending LOWC. This will better dispose them to receiving the body and blood of the Lord at their first communion.
Parents are invited to accompany their children if they wish.
It is our conviction that the Eucharistic liturgy, as the “font and wellspring” of our faith is the best catechetical experience. Colors and symbols, songs and rituals that are so rich in our Catholic tradition, are integrated into the LOWC to give the children a sense of the many ways God is communicated to us.
For more information or to become a volunteer leader, contact the
parish office.
