“Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14)

Children’s Liturgy

Children’s Liturgy is a special Liturgy of the Word for children that occurs during a mass. Children are invited to a separate area of the Church and hear the readings and receive instruction in a level that is more appropriate to their age and understanding. At St. Peter the Apostle, Children’s Liturgy occurs each Sunday at 9:00am Mass from September to June. All children (beginning from Jr. Kindergarten) are welcome. If you are new to St. Peter’s and would like to bring your child to Children’s Liturgy, simply as a parishioner or the priest when you arrive for mass.

One of the leaders asked a couple of the regular attendees what they would say to people interested in attending Children’s Liturgy. This is how they responded:

“My past 6 years at Children’s Liturgy have been amazing. I have strengthened my relationship with God as well as doing fun activities to learn more about Him. My favorite part of going to Children’s Liturgy was during the 40 days of Lent when we do activities every week.  This is a great organisation that makes our relationship with God very interactive, I can ask a question about the Lord and get a detailed answer. I would recommend this to any kids who come to this church.” Dylan  

“My name is Bradley and I am 8 years old.  I am a parishioner at St. Peter the Apostle Church.  I look forward to every Sunday because I get to attend Children’s Liturgy.  I have been going to Children’s Liturgy for about 4 years now.  We learn a lot about God and Jesus.  Each week we light a candle.  It’s a symbol to us that God is present with us as we learn about His great word.  During our time there we read the gospel, say prayers, sing songs, share stories from our own life that reflect that week’s gospel.  Once in a while we get colouring sheets to bring home to colour.  During Lent we get weekly projects to do.  They are a lot of fun.  Twice a year we get to take part in the Children’s Mass.  Another reason I like to attend Children’s Liturgy is because we have great teachers.” Bradley

“This is what I love about children’s liturgy:

1. I love doing readings and play’s at Christmas and Easter time.
2. I love making crafts like prayer bracelets and other activities we have at Easter time.
3. I love listening to the readings every week and when we talk about them.
4. I love walking out with the book and bringing gifts to father.
5. I love saying prays.” Andriana

Diocesan Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

What is Catechesis of the Good Shepherd?

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a Christian formation for children ages 3 through 12. Level I is for children 3-6 years, Level II is for children 6-9 years, and Level III is for children 9-12 years.

The CGS is based on the teaching methods of Maria Montessori and on the understanding that there is a deep bond between God and each child which produces in the child the desire to draw near to God.

In the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, the classroom, called the atrium, is a spiritual environment – a place of worship rather than a traditional classroom. It is perceived as ‘holy ground’ where Christ may be encountered in Word and action; a place for community and worship where the spiritual life of the child is nurtured; and a place of work that becomes prayer and conversation with God. It is a prepared environment where children grow in the knowledge of Jesus and his love. The work in the atrium prepares children for involvement in the liturgical life of the larger worshipping community.

Children are free to work with materials that represent the essence of the Christian message. These hands-on materials encourage children to explore and deepen their experiences at their own pace. The catechist’s role is to prepare the environment and materials; present works that call forth the child’s response; then step back, allowing God and the child to work together. The CGS requires formation & training for the adult catechists for each level.

The vision for the CGS began in Rome in 1954 with Dr. Sofia Cavalletti, a Hebrew Scripture scholar and her co-worker, Gianna Gobbi, a Montessori educator. It has now spread to 37 countries around the world, including Canada. Learn more about CGS in Canada at: www.cgsac.ca

The atrium for the region is located at the Pro-Cathedral in the Lower Sacristy. For more details and to register, please visit: http://procathedral.ca/youth/

Diocesan Youth Ministry

CLAY (Catholic Love Attitude Yes!)

A Youth Program for JK to Grade 5, Thursday evenings 6:30-8:00pm at St. Gregory’s School Gym, back entrance. Come out and join us for games, crafts and faith teachings in a fun filled and positive environment. For more information please contact Laurie Dobbs at 724-1277 or Jessica Sheppard at jessicasheppard@gmail.com.

The EDGE

Calling Grades 5, 6, 7 and 8’s!! Check out what living on “The EDGE” is all about. THE EDGE is a Catholic youth ministry that uses live music, drama, small group discussions, guest speakers, games, Scripture, crafts and other cool stuff to explore issues about our faith, solid values, youth concerns and happy living!! Snacks and prizes! Meets Monday 6:45-8:30 PM at St.Joseph Church in Powasssan. Regardless of school or church you may attend or where you live – everyone welcome. FREE – no need to pre-register. Call Pauline 724-5964 or Jeannine 724-3424 for information or transportation needed.

YEO (Youth Evangelizing Others)

YEO (Youth Evangelizing Others) is a Catholic Youth Group designed for grade 8-12 students with a mission to bring other teens to know Jesus through testimonies, talks, skits, and games. Friday nights at St. Joseph-Scollard Hall Gym from 6:30 to 9:00 PM. For more information, contact Sam at 496-0456.