Childrens’ Liturgy

At the start of the Parish Mission in St John’s – Fr Ronnie McAinsh gives a blessing to the children, their parents and their grandparents.

The Children’s Liturgy is the Liturgy of the Word suitably adapted to make it relevant to the lives and experiences of young children. It gives them the opportunity to understand the Gospel message and participate in the Eucharistic celebration at their own level.

Our sessions mirror that of the adult congregation. In a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, we introduce that day’s liturgy, making the sign of the cross to remember that we are all members of God’s family. We light a candle to remind the children that Jesus is the “light of the world”. Using a variety of prayers and simple songs set to familiar tunes, we say sorry to God for our mistakes, and praise God in the Gloria.

The Gospel text is adapted for children to better help them understand its meaning and make the message clearer. After the Gospel reading, we have a brief discussion, prompted by questions provided, to encourage the children to share their understanding of the Word of God. The activity that follows aims to help the children understand and retain the stories and remember the Gospel message. Their artwork is their special gift to God, shared with the whole congregation when presented at the Offertory procession.

Thanks to eight volunteers, children aged three to around ten years old benefit from hearing the Liturgy of the Word in a way that is easier for them to understand,, helping them to develop in their faith and take part more fully in the Mass. Craft activities support the lessons taught to the children.

Children’s liturgy is at 9am Mass during school term time with numbers of children attending varying from about a dozen to over 30.

Many thanks to all the volunteers who have worked with this ministry since Children’s Liturgy was started nearly 6 years ago.

We are always looking for more parents to help in this valuable and rewarding ministry, nurturing our children in the practise of their faith and making it meaningful for them.

1st Sunday of Lent – Year B – God’s Promise

Children’s Liturgy team
Angela Bailey, Patricia Crines, Stella Crole, Eileen Leslie, Colleen Houston, Magda and Jaromir Krucznski and Anne Mitchell (Coordinator 01738 628039)

The Children’s Liturgy is presently held at 9am Mass, primarily for children aged between 4 and 8 years. We would appreciate children who are aged 3 to be accompanied by an adult (to comply with child to adult ratio) and are happy for children up to 10 years of age to come along if they wish.


Each week our Childrens’ Liturgy is at 9am Sunday Mass and if you would like to join the team, helping to lead a session (every 5 weeks) or would like more information please get in touch with a member of the team.

Call Anne Mitchell 01738 628039