To parents of young children, may we say... RELAX!
God put the wiggle in children. Don’t feel like you have to suppress it in God’s house.
All are welcome!
Sit towards the front where it is easier for your little ones to see and hear what is going on at the altar. They tire of seeing the backs of others!
Quietly explain the parts of the Mass and actions of the priest, choir, and other ministries,
Help them find the hymns and prayers in the hymnal books. Sing the hymns, participate in the liturgy and pray.
Children learn about worship and liturgical behavior by copying you. If you have to leave Mass with your child, feel free to do so, but please come back. As Jesus said, “Let the children come to me…” Remember that the way we welcome children in church directly affects the way they respond to the Church, to God and to one another. Let them know that they are at home in His house of worship.
The presence of children is a present to the Church and a reminder that our parishes are growing.