Children's Liturgy of the Word 

Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLOW) is intended for any 4-year-olds through 5th graders who wish to participate.

It is offered at the 9:00 am & 11:00 am Masses on the first three Sundays of each month September through May (with a few holiday exceptions). We have been doing this for a little over 15 years to encourage children’s active participation in Mass and growth in their life of faith. There is no registration.

The Mass celebrant invites the children to the front of church for a blessing and dismissal right before the first reading. They follow the CLOW leader across the Gathering Space to the Chapel for their Liturgy of the Word, and return to their families at the time of the collection.

CLOW is celebrated using an opening prayer, first reading, responsorial psalm or song, and Gospel reading from materials that have the readings of the day especially adapted for children. The homily is typically woven in throughout the time with introductions and follow-ups to each part. The leaders seek to engage the children through such things as questions and answers, additional stories and concrete examples, occasional visual aids, and hand motions with songs. CLOW concludes with the creed (often adapted and in a format like the renewal of Baptism vows) and then some prayers of petition.

When the group appears to be large, we welcome and encourage a few parents to come and assist with the children. In any case, parents are always welcome to accompany the younger children until their little ones feel comfortable with coming.

We are seeking more leaders to help with this ministry. New leaders receive instruction and mentoring. Leaders typically help with one Mass per month. If you are interested or if you have questions, please call Mike Vievering at 952-469-6480.