Children's Liturgy of the Word 2025/26

We’re excited to announce the return of Children’s Liturgy of the Word at St. Barbara Catholic Church during the 10:00 AM Mass!

This special 20-minute class is designed for preschoolers and kindergartners ages 3–6 giving our youngest parishioners a chance to encounter God’s Word in a way they can truly understand.

Children are called forward at the beginning of Mass and escorted downstairs to a classroom for age-appropriate Scripture readings, reflection, prayer, and a hands-on activity. They return to the church during the Offertory, just before the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

First Children's Liturgy is scheduled for September 14th!

Please note: This is not part of first year sacramental preparation for First Communion or Reconciliation. It’s simply an opportunity for little ones to engage with Scripture and deepen their relationship with Christ.

✍️ Register Your Child

To help us prepare materials and ensure a safe, welcoming environment, we ask that families register their children in advance.

🔗 Click here to register your child

This program is free this year, but donations are always appreciated to help us cover materials and resources. If you’d like to contribute, you can do so here:

🔗 Faith Formation Giving Link

🙌 We Need Volunteers!

This ministry can only happen on the weeks we have enough volunteers available, and we’d love for you to join us! Whether you can serve once a month or more often, your help makes a lasting difference.

Volunteer Roles

• Teacher (VIRTUS training required) Escort children from the church to the classroom, lead the provided lesson plan, guide reflections, and oversee the activity. All materials and curriculum are fully provided, we just ask teachers to expect to plan for about 60 minutes of preparation each week.

  
  

• Helper (VIRTUS training required if assisting regularly) Escort children alongside the teacher, assist with activities, help children stay focused, and ensure safety.

  
  

We currently average about 17 children each week, so we strive to have at least two VIRTUS-trained adults present at all times, ideally three. If you’d like to teach or would like to preview the curriculum to see if it’s a good fit, contact Emily at emilysimburger@gmail.com.

🔗 Click here to sign up as a volunteer

Why Volunteer?

Being part of Children’s Liturgy of the Word is more than helping with a class, it’s about shaping the faith of our youngest parishioners and helping them grow in their love for Jesus.

When you volunteer, you’re planting seeds of faith that can last a lifetime and making a direct impact on the children, their families, and our parish community.

Even serving once a month can make a huge difference!

“But Jesus said, ‘Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.’” Matthew 19:14 (RSV-CE)

“Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me.” Matthew 18:5 (RSV-CE)