Parishioner Profiles: Erin Dailey leads our Children’s Liturgy of the Word
Erin Dailey is a wife, a mother, an attorney, a parishioner, an ACTS retreat alum, and the ministry leader for our Children’s Liturgy of the Word.
Erin assumes many roles throughout the week. A long-time Lector, Erin combined her love of Sacred Scripture with her love of children. Leading our Children’s Liturgy of the Word is a perfect fit for her.
How did you get involved with CLOW?
I had done religious education for teenagers in the past, and decided to get involved when my children were small and were participating in CLOW. I looked at it as a time to share my faith with them and their friends, and to better understand our faith from a child’s perspective.
How does CLOW let you use your God-given gifts?
I have lectored for many years, and always try to deliver the message of the readings to the community in a meaningful way. Not just as words on a page, but as God speaking to each of them on a personal level. CLOW allows me to do that for the youngest members of our parish.
What can children expect when they experience CLOW?
They will experience the Liturgy of the Word in a very reverent way, and also in a way that is easier for them to understand and digest. The readings are from the regular lectionary, although the language is simplified a bit when necessary. We say the responses and sing the Alleluia. The adult leader will then give a “homily.” We try to present homilies that the children can relate to, by using examples from their families or experiences with friends or school-mates. After the homily, we recite the Apostle’s Creed, which the children need to learn so they can pray the Rosary or Divine Mercy Chaplet, and then have prayers of the faithful. Parents are welcome to attend with their children if they would like to see what it is all about.
What do you get out of it?
First, I love being with the children and seeing their faces light up when they realize how much God loves them. Explaining that to them is often a reminder to me of the truth of that fact. In addition, meditating upon the readings to prepare the homily in a way that can be received by children often gives me new insights into the Scripture. Jesus said that we need to have the faith of a child, and participating in this ministry has really brought that home to me.
