Children's Liturgy of the Word
CONTACT: Carolanne Patetta ♦ (732) 271-8646 ♦ cpatetta@verizon.net
SCHEDULE: Teachers_and_Assistants_2011-2012
The Children’s Liturgy of the Word provides an opportunity for the young people of our parish to enhance the formation of their faith. During the 9:00 a.m. Mass on Sundays from late September through mid-May, children pre-school through 
grade 5 are invited to join adult volunteers to experience the Gospel in a child-friendly format and environment. The children begin Mass with their families in the church and then are dismissed prior to the first reading to join their group leader. They return to their families after the homily.
The Seeds program is designed for ages 3–5 and introduces preschoolers to Jesus' love for them. Seeds establishes a ritual and enables children to develop a warm and loving first memory of the exercise of their faith.
Good News, for children in Kindergarten through grade 4, engages youngsters in discussion and group activities designed to enhance their understanding of the Gospel message. Both the Seeds and Good News groups are exposed to prayers, songs, readings and an activity or discussion. Children also hear the Gospel each week in an age-appropriate format.
Volunteers are the lifeblood of Children’s Liturgy of the Word. The teachers act as facilitators and guides. Seeds and Good News have accompanying teacher handbooks that provide a complete outline of the lesson and Gospel for each week, including ideas for activities and discussion. Teacher volunteers are not required to develop a curriculum or lesson plans. Assistant volunteers aid the teachers, display the banners, welcome parishioners as they enter church, and guide the children as they process out and back into
This program is a rewarding experience for both children and volunteers. Many of the children at Saint James have commented how they look forward to participating each week and truly feel a part of the experience of the Mass. Adult volunteers find gratification in offering an example of their faith to the children. This is an ideal way for youth groups to earn service hours. Confirmation candidates, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts and junior high and high school students are welcome to help out.
Whosoever shall not receive the
