Children's Liturgy

What is Children’s Liturgy? Children’s Liturgy is the ‘Liturgy of the Word for Children.’ Here Children participate in the Sunday readings and the Gospel at a level they can understand and enjoy. This is enriched with interactive discussion, prayers, and songs. Our parish aims to make the children’s experience of church meaningful while helping them grow in faith and develop as full and active members of the parish community.

Why Children’s Liturgy? The first half of the Mass is the Liturgy of the Word, where we listen to readings from Scripture, followed by a homily by the priest or deacon. However, we all recognize that both of these are generally aimed toward the majority of the congregation, which is essentially adults. This proves to be of little interest to a young child who may become bored and feel disconnected from the celebration of the Mass. Children’s Liturgy is part of the Mass and they are not removed from the celebration, but our hope is that catering to them specifically enhances their Liturgical experience.

When does it take place? Children’s Liturgy at St. James is held every Sunday during the school year at the 9:00 am, and 11:00 am Masses. Children will be asked to come forward after the opening prayer of the Mass, and then they process together with their Catechists to the room where the Liturgy takes place. They rejoin the general congregation at offertory. 

Who can attend Children’s Liturgy? Children’s Liturgy is open to all children of primary school age. Younger siblings are welcome to be brought in if accompanied by a parent.

Who runs the Children’s Liturgy? Volunteers who are well formed in their faith and are passionate about passing it on to future generations run the children’s Liturgy. They use various resources, and each session is based on that Sunday’s readings.

We are always looking for people to help as either session leaders or helpers.