Children long for somebody to accept them, to love them, to praise them. Let us
bring the child back to the center of our care and concern. This is the only way
the world can survive because our children are the only hope of the future.”---
Mother Theresa
Children’s Liturgy is a wonderful ministry where adult volunteers share Mass with
children on the child’s level so that children can understand and appreciate the
readings and the Gospel. When we teach we learn. It is a great chance to grow closer
to God.
Since the first day of Advent 2002, we have been blessed to have children’s Liturgy
at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel at the 9 A.M. Sunday Mass. Just before the First Reading,
the priest or deacon asks that all children who want to, from pre-school through fifth
grade, go to the Rectory basement with the “Shepherd” and assistants for their own
Gospel reading and discussion – in their own words! The children return to the church
For the Offering, and some of the children bring up the gifts. We have a wonderful group
of adult volunteers. Each volunteer is called on to help every six weeks. We have one
shepherd (or leader) and one assistant each Sunday (except Christmas and Easter). We
have an easy-to-follow lesson plan that each shepherd receives. ( We use Pflaum Publishing
materials.) We also have a keyboard, piano, and whiteboard for your use. We have
materials for a prayer table, which we ask you to set up in the basement before Mass
(usually the shepherds arrive by 8:45A.M.). Please consider either your middle school age or
high school age for a position as assistant to the children’s liturgy. He or she would do the
readings and help the kids get back to the church. We want to incorporate more music in the morning, so please share your talent with the children. We would love a piano player,
maybe guitar? Any age will help create joy for the children. All parents are welcome to attend Children’s Liturgy with their child(ren) to see how it works.
We hope you
and your children will join us!
Allison and others will be certain to keep your company until a shepherd is feeling comfortable to lead on her own day. Please consider this chance to serve.
- Children can take an active part in this type of Mass.
- They feel part of the church community
- They will want to attend Mass
- They will better understand the Gospel lesson
- Kids receive take home information after each Children’s Liturgy
To learn more about the program contact: Allison Jenkins @215-348-2171
Or email: acjenkins3@verizon.net
