CHILDREN'S LITURGY OF THE WORD
Beginning in September and continuing on until Pentecost Sunday, there will be a special Liturgy of the Word for children during the 10:30am Mass. After the introductory rites, the children will process out and meet with two catechists in the Chapel of Consolation on the upper level of the South side of the Church for approximately twenty minutes, while the readings and homily are taking place. Then, guided back by the catechists and assisting parents after the General Intercessions, they will rejoin the congregation for the remainder of the Mass.
The purpose of the Liturgy of the Word will not be to take children out of Mass, but to give them a way to participate more deeply and with more understanding. The lessons will be conveyed in a story form using Montessori based methods and materials from the Godly Play program. Following the same simple format each week, we will highlight an aspect of the readings for each week, focus on each liturgical season by preparing and celebrating, wonder about and discuss the significance of the word, and reflect and celebrate in song and response.
Who can participate? The lessons are designed primarily to engage 3 to 6-year-old children, but other children slightly older or younger are also welcome. Children who are unaccompanied must be potty trained and ready to listen to the scripture story. We request that children who are not potty trained, are on the younger side, or have the tendency to be rambunctious or loud to remain in Church. Children have an innate sense of the presence of God. The Liturgy of the Word with Children helps them to explore their faith through scripture stories, to gain religious language and to enhance their spiritual experience through wonder. Come join us!
The safety of your children: Both catechists have been through Virtus training and have had background checks. Both know procedures to follow in case of fire or other emergency. And both are ready to answer questions about any aspect of this program. They can be reached by email - Amy Alznauer (amyalz@gmail.com) and Keri Godon (kerigodon@yahoo.com).
The Cathechists:
Amy Alznauer has been a member of Saint Gregory’s since 2005 when she and her husband went through the RCIA program and became Catholics. Amy teaches mathematics part-time at Northwestern. She is also a creative writer and is one of the Artists in Residence at St. Gregory the Great. She also spends the majority of her time taking care of her two children, John and Margaret.
Keri Godon has been a member of Saint Gregory’s since 2004. She is married to Patrick Godon, St. Gregory’s music director and is a musician and music teacher herself. Keri and Patrick have three sons Gilbert, Oliver and Atticus.