Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLOW)

Children’s Liturgy of the Word is a vital ministry that serves children from Preschool to Grade 2 during Sunday Masses. This ministry is “directed to the child’s active, conscious and authentic participation” [Directory for Masses with Children, 1973, n.12] in the Liturgy of the Word, by providing readings adapted to a child’s level from the Lectionary for Masses with Children, and an explanation of these readings in words that appeal to the children and with activities that bring the readings to life. Children are escorted from the church just before the Liturgy of the Word begins and return to their parents during the Preparation of the Gifts.

Volunteers are needed to be catechists (to proclaim the Scripture readings and explains them on a child’s level) and shepherds (assist the catechists in movement of the children to and from the church and keep up with the progress of the Mass). Presently volunteers are serving about once a month, but with your help we hope to limit this commitment to once every other month. A leader’s guide walks you through each session, and training is provided for all volunteers.

Masses that presently have Children’s Liturgy of the Word are:

• Sunday 9:15 AM
• Sunday 1:30 PM (in Spanish)

Sunday 11:15 AM was offered until June 2009, and Saturday 5:15 PM until November 2011, but need more volunteers to be reinstated.

Please note that participation in Children's Liturgy of the Word is not sufficient for preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. For that, children need to register for and participate in the Elementary Faith Development program. 

The Faith Development staff wish to communicate with parents of children who participate in Children's Liturgy of the Word, so please let us know who you are by completing the form below. We hope you will consider joining the wonderful group of volunteers who support this ministry.

If you need more information or have questions, please contact Mollie Berry at 919-942-6236.

Further explanation of Children's Liturgy of the Word from Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina Apostolorum Pontifical University.