Children's Liturgy
Preschool Age:
The community of 3-6 year olds with or without their parents and 2 1/2 year olds with parent (if child is showing desire) are invited during the 10 am liturgy to gather in the choir room (on the right side behind the altar.)
The Jesus Story and other stories of God's love are told by the prayer leaders. Children are encouraged to enter into the story and respond in song, prayer, drama, or art form. A packet containing the prayer story and the liturgical format help guide prayer leaders. A training session is given to orient new prayer leaders.
Parent Contact: Rotating Prayer Leaders
Resource person: Madonna Kuciejczyk-Kernan
School Age:
Provides opportunity for children ages 6-10 to experience God's Word at their level. Every Sunday at 10 a.m. Mass (except designated Family Masses) this age group of children is invited to gather in the sacristy to the left of the altar. Adult prayer leaders receive preparatory materials so that they can prayerfully lead the children in the liturgy of the word .
Parent Contact: Rotating Prayer Leaders
Parish Center, 314-256-9350
It takes a village to raise a child, African wisdom proclaims. At St. Cronan's we have realized this is particularly true in our spiritual village. Our children and youth need the continued involvement of a parent co-op and the larger community. For children who participate, parents are asked to be a prayer leader or assistant for Children's Liturgy at least once every two months.
Children's Liturgy
Before the reading of the Word
the call goes out and the children come forth
some eagerly, some hesitantly,
some with the assurance of an older hand who's been that way before.
This parading carnival wanders past the pulpit, past the altar,
and makes its way into that room where all good things know no bounds.
Just the children, and a few choice older ones, know what goes on in there –
for a mysterious quiet is colored on the closed door.
Within, they begin to be given the keys to the kingdom:
togetherness, stories, and a chance to create!
The little ones return these gifts through expressions of joy, songs,
art, and camaraderie. . .
Of course, there is no doubt that God is tasted there
for they bound out with joy and exuberance
bearing gifts with eyes singing Hosanna as they
search for the assuring presence of parents and friends
remembering the kingdom that has just come.
– Bill Miller
