Liturgy of Light - Children receiving the light we are called to share.
On Sunday, May 7th, catechists and children of the COS Atrium gathered for the Liturgy of Light service to celebrate the light and life of the risen Christ. The service is held every spring during the season of Easter.
The Liturgy of Light service begins with a procession when each child carries an item to be placed on the prayer table (in our case, the stone bench in the Memorial Garden): a prayer table cloth, cross, vine, Good Shepherd statue, and a Bible and bible stand. Children place the items near the Paschal candle, which later becomes the source to light individual candles held by the children. During the service, we sing several familiar songs. The older children recite scripture, and share prayers of concern and thanksgiving towards the end of the service. After the prayers, children are invited to come and place their candles around the Paschal candle
I view the Liturgy of Light service as a year-end culminating experience that is a public extension of the Montessori-based work unfolding every week in the Atrium. On Sunday mornings, children and catechists gather to sing before the younger children move to the Level 1-2 classroom, and the older ones make their way to Level 2-3.In the classrooms, catechists deliver a presentation on a parable, or a biblical narrative or mystery, or related to the life of the Church.The class schedule intentionally leaves time for children to ponder wondering questions, and to engage in hands-on work that encourages quiet exploration of themes heard and observed during the presentation.
The curriculum, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, is based on the belief that God and the child have a unique relationship with one another and that the growth of this relationship should be assisted by the adult, but is directed by the Spirit of God within the child.
The weekly classes in both levels conclude every Sunday—as does the Liturgy of Light--with a beloved song:
Go now in Peace, Go now in Peace,
May the love of God surround you,
Everywhere, Everywhere, you may go.
David Hoolahan
May 14, 2023