The Heartbeat of Our Parish: Celebrating Nearly Two Decades of the Family Mass
If you have ever stepped into Saint Paul’s Church at 10:30am on a Sunday morning, you have likely felt it immediately—a bright, uplifting energy, the sweet sound of children’s voices, and a profound sense of community.
Since 2007, our 10:30am Family Mass has had a very clear and beautiful purpose: to place our children right at the heart of the celebration of the Eucharist. Over the years, it has become a true cornerstone of parish life in Lurgan, drawing families together week after week and giving our youngest members a genuine sense of belonging in God’s house.
Designed with Children in Mind
Every element of the Family Mass is thoughtfully woven together to make sure children don’t just watch the Mass, but actively live it.
- A Special Welcome: Each week, the priest begins with a warm welcome just for the children, letting them know how important they are to our parish family.
- Words They Can Understand: The readings are taken from a special Children’s Lectionary, using accessible language that allows the Gospel message to truly connect with young hearts.
- Projected Prayers: To help everyone follow along easily, the readings and responses are projected onto the wall. This is a wonderful help for little ones learning the order of the Mass, and it invites the whole congregation to sing and pray as one.
Growing, Leading, and Serving Together
What makes the Family Mass so joyful is seeing our youth take on key roles throughout the liturgy, building their confidence and faith step-by-step:
- Ministers of the Word: Children (typically Primary 6 and above) bravely step up to proclaim the readings from the altar.
- Prayers of the Faithful: Our intercessions are led by children of all different ages (from Primary 1 and 2 upwards), ensuring even our littlest ones have a voice.
- The Offertory Procession: Younger children proudly carry the gifts up to the altar, often guided and supported by older youth walking alongside them.
- The Our Father Circle: In one of the most beautiful moments of the Mass, the children are invited to gather right around the altar to pray the Our Father together, before bringing the Sign of Peace back down to their smiling families.
- A Gentle Blessing: Children who have not yet made their First Holy Communion are invited forward for a special, personal blessing from the priest.
- Our Wonderful Teenagers: Our youth participating in the Pope John Paul II Award act as brilliant ushers and helpers, ensuring our young people play a vital role in the parish no matter their age.
A Ministry of Joy: Our Choir
In 2017, our parish was incredibly blessed by the arrival of our Junior Choir leaders and teachers. Thanks to their immense dedication, talent, and guidance, a thriving Choir has emerged.
Today, they are an essential and deeply uplifting part of our weekly celebration. Their beautiful music fills the church, enriches the liturgy, and inspires the entire congregation to lift their hearts in praise.
Come and Be a Part of It!
The Family Mass is a safe, nurturing, and incredibly happy environment. Parents can rest assured that all safeguarding laws and requirements are strictly in place at all times, and all of our leaders have completed the obligatory training.
Whether you are a family with tiny toddlers, growing teenagers, or you simply want to experience the vibrant joy of our parish community, you are so incredibly welcome at 10:30am.
Want to get involved? If your child would like to join the choir, help with the readings, or if you simply want to find out more, please come up and have a chat with our leaders after Mass. We would be absolutely delighted to welcome you into the team!