Open my mind so I can learn about You; (Cut the top of the pumpkin)
Take away all my sin and forgive me for the wrong things I do; (Clean out the inside)
Open my eyes so Your Love I will see; (Cut eyes shaped like hearts)
I'm sorry for turning up my nose to all You've given me; (Cut a nose in the shape of the cross)
Open my ears so Your Word I will hear; (Cut ears shaped like the Bible)
Open my mouth so I can tell others You're near; (Cut mouth in the shape of a fish)
Let Your Light shine in all I say and do! Amen. (Place a candle and light)
Please stayed tuned for future announcements, calendar dates, coloring pages, and fun & games.
For example, click on this link for a Happy House printout for a child's checklist. This printout can be obtained from this website weekly or you can save the form on your computer for easy access.
In the meantime. . .
Children of all ages are welcomed! ! This is my sixth year participating in Children’s Liturgy at the 8:30 am mass and I truly love speaking to the children in helping them to understand the gospel on their level. This is Diane Cypher’s third year participating in Children’s Liturgy at the 10:00 am mass. It is so rewarding! One of our favorite things to do together is to say a prayer for “our own intentions.” The children look forward to this part of our time together. They amaze me time after time with prayers for a grandparent, a parent, a sister, or brother, a neighbor or their dog or cat. Sometimes they are compelled to tell me who they are praying for and why….they are so sweet! Parents (or an older sibling) are welcomed to escort their child into the chapel (until they become comfortable). Sometimes we color or draw a picture if time permits.
Liturgy of the Word for Children I hope everyone has a wonderful summer. Children’s Liturgy begins again on Sunday, September 18, 2011 at the 8:30 am mass and at the 10:00 am mass. The term “Children’s Liturgy of the Word” refers to the practice of children leaving the Sunday assembly during the Liturgy of the Word and gathering elsewhere to celebrate a separate Liturgy of the Word that is more appropriate to their level of understanding.
If your child is old enough to sit still and listen to a story without many interruptions, they are old enough to come to Children’s Liturgy.
They may be accompanied by an older sister or brother until they are comfortable to come up alone.
Alleluia, Alleluia, Praise the Lord (clap your hands) Alleluia, Alleluia, Praise the Lord (clap your hands)
As we listen to His story, let us praise him for his glory, Alleluia, Alleluia, Praise the Lord (clap your hands).
I hope you will encourage your child, or the child that may be sitting next to you, to attend Children’s Liturgy at the 8:30 Mass . . . the more, the merrier!
I look forward to seeing you soon.
Warmest regards,
Elisa Coccia
Dear Parents,
Participation during the 8:30 Children's Liturgy has been decreasing. I am asking the parents of children that attend that particular mass to encourage your child to participate. The person that teaches Children's Liturgy at our 8:30 mass for the third year now is Elisa Coccia. She has been attending St. Philips parish for seventeen years and loves children. She has also taken a course "Protecting Gods Children" and I am 100% confident that your children are in good hands.
The children are called forward, given a special blessing, then they are lead into our Chapel. They usually start with an opening prayer and then Elisa reads the gospel to them at their level which will help them understand the message being sent in each scripture. Then she explores with the children how they can apply what they just heard to their every day life. This is a wonderful way to nourish their faith and lead them to active participation in the Catholic religion as well as within our parish. They are given the opportunity to ask questions which sometimes leads to interesting discussions (even at their ages). The age group is usually K-4 however, ages 3-5 are welcomed with a parent if you feel more comfortable. If your child is old enough to listen to a story without too many interruptions, then please encourage your child to come forward when called for Children's Liturgy.
Help continue this vital ministry. Thank you for your time. Sincerely,
Rev. Theesmas Pankiraj, Pastor St. Philip the Apostle
Elisa Coccia - 8:30 am Sunday Mass Director 
Elisa brings you a...
Alleluia, Alleluia, Praise the Lord
