Liturgy as a journey : accompanying children during the liturgical year

Abstract

This dissertation attempts to analyse how children between eight and twelve years of age can understand better the liturgical year and participate in it more fully. As Christians they grow through the liturgy. The liturgical year enriches the Church's life. This dissertation also highlights the importance of catechesis about the liturgical year and gives suggestions and ideas about how this catechesis can be imparted. It approaches the subject through the metaphor of the journey, as participating in the liturgical year is a process that helps the faithful to worship God and reach Him as their ultimate destination. The liturgical year celebrates different stages of the Church's life and reaches its climax through the Paschal mystery. The Mystery of Christ is made present through listening to the Word of God and participation in the Eucharist and the Sacraments. Those who are responsible for catechesis must help children see the beauty of the Lord's year, and explain its significance, firstly through the example of their authentic living and appreciation of it. This dissertation also includes a study based on a questionnaire that was carried out to shed light on children's knowledge of the liturgical year and their attitude towards it.