Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLOW)

We are in discernment for the 2021-2022 Children's Liturgy of the Word (CLOW) year. Thank you for your patience.

CLOW is a vital ministry that serves children from Kindergarten to Grade 2 during Sunday Masses. This ministry is “directed to the child’s active, conscious and authentic participation” [Directory for Masses with Children, 1973, n.12] in the Liturgy of the Word, by providing readings adapted to a child’s level from the Lectionary for Masses with Children, and an explanation of these readings in words that appeal to the children and with activities that bring the readings to life. Children are escorted from the church just before the Liturgy of the Word begins and return to their parents during the Preparation of the Gifts.

Please note that participation in CLOW is not sufficient for preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. For that, children need to register for and participate in the Elementary Faith Development Program. 

Volunteers are needed to be Catechists (to proclaim the Scripture readings and explain them on a child’s level) and Shepherds (assist the catechists in movement of the children to and from the church and keep up with the progress of the Mass). Volunteers typically serve once a month, but with your help we hope to limit this commitment to once every other month. A Leader’s Guide walks you through each session, and training and materials are provided for all volunteers.

The Faith Development staff wish to communicate with parents of children who participate in CLOW, so please let us know who you are by completing the form below. We hope you will consider joining the wonderful group of volunteers who support this ministry.

If you need more information or have questions, please contact Julie Hall at 919-942-6236. (Scroll to bottom for email.)