This program is for children age 4 through grade 4, and takes place throughout the school year (Sept - May).
Last year we had 5 adult volunteers and a few teen helpers who shared the CLOW leadership responsibilities (an average of about 1-2 Sundays per month). Leading the sessions involves about 1-2 hours of prep time during the week (using the leader's guide), arriving at church on Sunday at about 9:45 am to set up, leading the session from 10:05 to 10:30, and returning to church for the rest of Mass.
This year we're hoping to start CLOW on Sunday, Sept 22nd at the 10:00 am Mass, provided enough volunteers step forward.
How does CLOW work? --- At the beginning of Mass, after the Opening Prayer, the priest invites the children forward and gives them a blessing. Then an adult leader and teen helper lead them out of the church to the fireside room in the Parish Center. (Parents may go with their children the first few times if they are apprehensive.) The leader proclaims the Scripture readings from the Mass to the children (in a kid-friendly translation) and discusses the meaning with them (using a leader's guide). A song or brief activity is incorporated to enhance the experience. The CLOW session ends with a simplified profession of faith (Creed) and some petitions, with the children being encouraged to voice their own. Then the adult and teen leaders walk the children back into church while the collection is being taken up, and make sure the children return to sitting with their parents.
In addition to providing children with an experience of the Liturgy of the Word that is more at their own level, CLOW also helps parents in the church to hear the Scripture readings and homily in a deeper way, since they won't be distracted by their younger children fidgeting in the pews.
If you or your teenager would be interested in helping to lead CLOW, please contact Matt in the RE Office at  matt.pozen@visitationcc.org or 630-279-7058 x 502. Matt will provide training, leader's guides, and ongoing support.
Come join this fun and fulfilling ministry!