How It Works during Mass
- The Dismissal: After the opening prayers of the Mass, the priest blesses the children (typically ages 4 to 9) and dismisses them with trained adult leaders.
- The Separate Liturgy: The children move to the chapel. They hear the same readings as the adults, but read from a simplified Children’s Lectionary.
- Reflection & Activities: Adult catechists lead a child-friendly homily or reflection, often incorporating songs, group discussions, or short activities to reinforce the biblical message.
- The Return: Before the Liturgy of the Eucharist begins (the presentation of the gifts), the children are escorted back to the main Church to rejoin their families for the rest of Mass.
Why We Use It
The primary goal is to foster a genuine, conscious relationship with God by removing language barriers that make the adult readings difficult for young minds. It helps plant early seeds of faith and prepares children to transition smoothly into the full adult congregation as they grow older.
