Background
The Liturgy of the Word for Children of The Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish, Kota Kinabalu has its humble beginning in 1991 when a group of people got together after having attended a retreat in Johore. Initial sessions were conducted by only 5 members at the former St. Francis Convent Primary School's Chapel. About 30 children attended. Due to the overwhelming response from both the parents and the children, and especially the enthusiasm and support shown by the religious, the venue for the sessions has since moved to the Blessed Sacrament Chapel with a weekly attendance of more than 100 children per session. There are altogether 6 seesions per weekend in our Parish/Sub-parishes as follows:

Objective
To encourage and invite children aged 7 - 12 (Primary Graders) to share in the Word of God at their level of understanding. It is undeniable that the reading and the sermon, as proclaimed during the Mass may not be fully understood by the children. Hence, the Liturgy of the Word for Children plays its role by

• simplifying God's Word, yet keeping its meaning fully intact, and
• breaking and reflecting on the Word in relation with the children's daily lives

Please note that the Liturgy of the Word for Children is NOT just another Sunday activity. It complements the role of the main Church's liturgy.

Mechanics
At the invitation of the Priest (after the greeting), the children are led to the Chapel by the facilitators and "Wardens"(children selected among those attending the Children's Liturgy) to celebrate their own liturgy. Songs and body movements are the norm and all the children are encouraged to partake in such "language". Whenever acting has to be initiated, the children are reined in as the cast. Such role-play is meant to solicit interest and communication.

Activities
The Liturgy of the Word for Children strongly believes in experiential learning, hence it organizes annual children camps/retreats, children masses, Christmas Caroling etc.... The primary focus of such activities are on:

• personal involvement
• exposure
• learning to grow as children of God. It is the Ministry's fervent hope that the children will one day be effective citizens of God's Kingdom.

Challenges
After more than 8 years of existence, it is sad to say that committed members are still glaringly lacking. The degree of parents' involvement in the children's activities is still at an unsatisfactory level.

To sustain and enhance the momentum of the Liturgy of the Word for Children, we appeal to the parishioners to share their time by assisting in this ministry. We believe You Can Make a Difference!

Parents are encouraged to participate in their children's activities - reviewing activity sheets can enhance your symbiotic relationship!

It has to be made clear that the Liturgy of the Word for Children always desires a more synergistic relationship between the members, the parents and the children

Conclusion
Dear Parents, let us for a moment stop our anxious rushing and follow HIS lead - making our way slow but sure, day by day, prayer by prayer, kind deed followed by attentive kind deed, towards OUR LORD, OUR GOD.

You will be surprised with the reward if you can be patient with yourself. You will find that it is much easier to be patient and loving with others. With this, allow the Liturgy of the Word for Children to say:

"MAY HE SMILE ON YOU AND REMAIN IN YOU!"