Catechesis is a lifelong process of initial conversion, formation, education, and continual conversion.  The family, by definition, has an essential role in preparing young people for their journey with Christ.  Parents are entrusted by Christ and His church with the task of teaching children how to live the Christian life.*  

WHY GO TO MASS?   As Catholics, we believe that personal prayer is not complete unless our prayers are joined with the community of faith who is the living Body of Christ. The Sunday liturgy is the greatest form of prayer because together we receive the gift of the Holy Eucharist — the very real presence of the Risen Christ. Attending weekly (or daily) Mass is an essential part of a healthy prayer life.                                     

But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”   - Matthew 19:14, NABRE

 St. Mary's 11 am Sunday Children's Liturgy has been restored! As more families return to regular Sunday Mass, we will add Children's Liturgy to other Mass times as well.

While Greater Massena Catholic Community understands and promotes the role of families in teaching the faith to their children, we also strive to supplement that education in a variety of ways, furthering children's understanding of Christ's teachings.

As part of our Sunday Liturgy at Sacred Heart (9:30 AM) and St. Mary's (11 AM), Children's Liturgy of the Word is offered. 

Young Mass attendees are invited to participate in the Liturgy of the Word, which takes place during the scriptural readings and homily. In this special portion of the Mass, the scriptures are explained to our young parishioners and visitors in ways they can understand. The Children's Liturgy of the Word often includes crafts, coloring activities and/or song. 

• God created you in his image and likeness.  You are His child. He loves you uniquely.
• Due to sin, our relationship with God was broken.  
• God's son, Jesus Christ, became man, died on the cross, and rose for our salvation.   
• We are saved by faith in Jesus Christ, and through Jesus our relationship with God is restored.  
• Through the Church, we have access to grace by baptism and are nourished by the Eucharist.  
• Through the Holy Spirit, God dwells in us, and transforms us more and more to be like Jesus; His grace perfects us, and he fulfills our every desire. 
• God respects our freedom, however, and it is up to us to accept and cooperate with this rich, incredible gift of grace and new life in the Spirit.

* Family Catechesis for the Seven Sacraments, Diocese of Ogdensburg                                 (paraphrased)

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