ST. MARY'S PARISHIONERS at WORK
CHILDRENS' LITURGY OF THE WORD
St Mary's R.C. Church, Chorley
LITTLE CHURCH
‘Liturgy of the Word for Children’
What is Little Church?
"Little Church" is the "Liturgy of the Word for Children". Our Parish welcomes families and the full participation of young children in the celebration of the Mass. Since 1987 children at St Mary’s have enjoyed their own Liturgy of the Word through 'Little Church' at the 11.00am Sunday Mass. There are two groups; 3-6 and 7-10 year olds.
We try to ensure that Children's Liturgy is an enjoyable experience for the children which helps develop their relationship with God. We discuss the Gospel of the day at a level the children can understand and enjoy. We enrich this with discussion, prayers, songs and readings. We also try to raise 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.
The children gather in Church for the beginning of the Mass with their families and after a blessing from Father they go out to the activity rooms with the leaders and helpers. We return to lead the offertory procession and join our families for the rest of Holy Mass.
What do the children think about Little Church?
We display our work in Church for everybody to see.
It is great fun and I see my friends.
I love the activities best.
We get a worksheet to take home
Can I accompany my child?
Parents/carers are welcome to accompany their child until they are confident to attend alone. However, if a parent/carer attends on a regular basis (more than 3 or 4 times) they will be expected to complete an Enhanced CRB check. This is in accordance with the advice and guidance given by the Archdiocese of Liverpool and must be strictly adhered to.
What do parents/carers think about Little Church?
My children love going to Little Church and are excited to attend Mass.
My baby sometime cries so the play area is great. I can pop out when I need to settle her.
When my children are in Little Church it gives me an opportunity to listen and take part in the Mass knowing they are safe and happy.
We talk about ‘Little Church’ as a family at home. It is a good way for us to discuss God.
My son always comes back with a beaming smile on his face.
Can I get involved?
We are always keen to welcome new leaders and helpers. There is no previous experience needed and full guidance and support will be given. We meet two or three times a year to plan activities etc. Currently we ask for a commitment to lead or assist approximate once every 6 weeks. We would appreciate any help that is offered.
Is there a crèche?
There is a crèche/play area at the back of the church for families with babies and toddlers to use. Parents / carers remain with their babies / toddlers in the crèche area as this facility is not supervised.
What about safeguarding and CRB checks?
St Mary’s Parish is committed to the protection of children & vulnerable adults and complies fully with the guidance give by the Archdiocese of Liverpool. This means that all volunteers who come into contact with children and/or vulnerable adults must comply with the safeguarding procedures. A team of trained volunteers co-ordinates the administration of these procedures on behalf of the Parish. For further information contact the parish office or follow the link: http://www.liverpoolcatholic.org.uk.
For further information please speak to one of the Little Church Leaders or
Contact Alison 01257 272046 or
email: stmaryschorley@yahoo,co.uk
Website: http://www.stmarys-chorley.org
Church We display our work in Church for everybody to see.
