At Christ the King we recognize the great value and importance of our children. Not only are they great gifts to our life and community here and now, but they are the future of our community. Therefore we work to provide opportunities for children of all ages and support families as they strive to raise faith-filled disciples of Christ!
“For many of us in Holy Cross, mission expresses itself in the education of youth in schools, colleges and universities. For others, our mission as educators takes place in parishes and other ministries. Wherever we work we assist others not only to recognize and develop their own gifts but also to discover the deepest longing in their lives. And, as in every work of our mission, we find that we ourselves stand to learn much from those whom we are called to teach.” —Constitutions of the Congregation of Holy Cross (2.16)
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) is a hands-on Montessori-based approach to teaching our faith to parish and school children ages 3–9. This unique, highly interactive approach emphasizes Scripture and liturgy while encouraging children to develop a deeper understanding of our faith and their relationship with God.
Parishioners serve in a variety of roles: as catechists to facilitate sessions, as catechist assistants, and as volunteers to make various catechetical materials. Needed talents include making paper cutouts, sewing, artistic drawing, painting, calligraphy, and woodworking. Catechists are required to attend CGS training. Please contact Tessa Mammolenti for more information.
CTK Ministry of the Month Profile
Children's Liturgy of the Word
Children's Liturgy of the Word (CLOW) is an age-appropriate Liturgy of the Word offered for ages 3–7 at the 8:45 AM Mass.
Just before the Liturgy of the Word begins for the assembly, the children are invited to come forward to the sanctuary to go with the weekly leaders to the Fr. Jones Room in the church basement. During this time, the volunteer team leads the children through prayers, songs, and readings that are simplified for children. The children learn about the same Scripture readings as the rest of the assembly, taught the main message of the readings, and then encouraged to share that message with their parents. The children are brought back to the church by the weekly leaders after the homily.
Adult leaders are needed to proclaim the readings to the children and help lead reflections. Training is provided for all new leaders, and materials are given in advance to the volunteer team each week. Please contact Teresa in the parish office for more information or to sign up.
Religious Education
Our parish Religious Education Program provides catechesis and faith formation to all parish youth who are not currently enrolled in Catholic school. Classes meet on Sunday mornings during the regular school year from 8:45 until 10:00 AM. Catechists from the parish are needed to teach the various grade levels. Please contact Teresa in the parish office for more information.
CTK Ministry of the Month Profile
Vacation Bible School
Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy time together as a family, enjoy the beautiful outdoors, get some much need rest and relaxation, and for kids to receive the opportunity to learn more about our faith! Vacation Bible School (VBS) is a one-week program in the summer designed specifically to invite children ages 4–9 (pre-school through outgoing fourth-grade students) to deepen their relationship with God in a fun, faith-filled environment.
In the midst of summer camps don't forget to mark your calendars for our VBS this year during the week of June 19-23, 2023. The cost is $70 per child and includes a T-shirt. Watch as your kids learn to embrace faith as a life-giving adventure!
Coordinators and many parishioners are needed to serve as group leaders and activity directors as the children engage in songs, stories, crafts, skits, and snacks. Youth volunteers must at least be in the fifth grade. If you have questions or would like to volunteer for this ministry, please contact the parish office or email vbs@sbctk.com.