The aim of the Children’s Liturgy Program in the Parish is to make the children’s experience of church meaningful, while helping them to grow in the faith of the Catholic Church and develop as full and active members of our Parish Community.

The first half of the Mass is the Liturgy of the Word where we listen to readings from the Bible. This is followed by a homily where the priest interprets the scriptures, relating them to the Christian life. However, much of this is generally aimed towards the majority of the congregation which is essentially adult. This proves to be of little interest to a young child who may become bored, making church a negative experience.

WHAT IS CHILDREN’S LITURGY?

Children’s Liturgy is actually the Liturgy of the Word for children. The Gospel of the day is read and explained at a level that the children can understand and enjoy. Group discussion, prayers, songs and some simple activities are some ways that enhance the message of the Gospel. We also try to raise the children’s awareness of God’s love, the humanity of Jesus, the seasons of the church, the understanding of symbols in the Mass, and the context of the Bible.

WHEN DO CHILDREN GATHER FOR CHILDREN’S LITURGY?

The priest invites the children to come forward after the opening prayer and the catechist leads them to a gathering space for the liturgy of the word; when the congregation is professing their faith, i.e. when “The Creed“ is being recited, the children are brought back into the church to join their families.

THE TEAM BEHIND CHILDREN’S LITURGY?

A dedicated team of volunteers facilitate the Children’s Liturgy Program at OLHC. They are members of our parish who have a keen interest in the faith development of the children in the parish.

Volunteers receive formal instruction through training material approved by the Diocese. They are also required to attend a parish-funded structured programme, after which they receive a certificate of training.

New members are encouraged to join, which keeps the team fresh with new ideas and personalities, and ensures that the Children’s Liturgy Program is sustained even after existing volunteers move on or reduce their level of activity.

Volunteers are expected to attend regular planning meetings to ensure the effective running of this program.

WANT TO BE A COORDINATOR?

Please contact the Parish Office on 03 9704 7935 or fill in the form at the bottom of this page.

You must have a current Working with Children Check and must sign the Parish Child Safety Code of Conduct.

Children’s Liturgy is held on allocated Sundays of the month.