11th Week of Ordinary Time, Monday (Cycle II)

"In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

"Our help is in the name of the Lord who made heaven and earth."

(Response to the Psalm)

(Read the quote, then each line slowly, with pauses to allow the children (and us!) to reflect on the questions.)

I'm trying a different approach for a little while. My boys are 5 and 6 and have many wonderful ideas to share. I'm going to try just starting with a phrase and exploring it with them - often what I think will help them doesn't seem to hit to spot, so I'm going to try and be guided more by them. I invite you to try the same with your own children.

Allow any spontaneous prayers, perhaps leading by example. 3-6 year olds relate most naturally to God through prayers of praise and thanksgiving; 6+ will have started thinking about their needs and the needs of those around them in prayers of intercession. Some children may also just want quiet time to speak with God in their hearts.)

(Sing a simple hymn or chant if your children like singing. Or even if they don't ;) This can also be done at the beginning. )

"In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."