[Sea Cliff, NY] - Recently, an “instructional Liturgy” took place at the Church of Our Lady of Kazan in Sea Cliff, NY. This special service, led by Father John Bartholomew with the assistance of Deacon Paul Hunchak, was designed to give the children (and adults) in our parish a better understanding of the Liturgy.

In the two weeks leading up to it, the children practiced some easier parts of the Liturgy, like the litanies and a hymn before Communion. Teodora Choolfain, one of the moms, went the extra mile by using the book The Divine Liturgy for Children to teach them about the service, ensuring they could participate more actively. (The Divine Liturgy for children: An interactive guide for participation in the Divine Liturgy: Timko-Hughes, Anna: Amazon.com: Books).

Before the service started, Father John took everyone through the Proskomedia. The children and adults gathered around the Table of Oblation and watched as Father John prepared the prosphora to be used during Holy Communion. Usually hidden from view, this part was performed in the main church area, allowing everyone to see how the prosphora is cut and what each part represents.

During the Liturgy, the children got involved in different roles to keep them engaged. One of the older children read the Prokeimenon, Epistle, and Gospel verses, while all the children joined in singing the litanies, alleluia, and a piece before Communion. This hands-on involvement helped them connect more deeply with the service and understand its flow better.

Father John paused throughout the service to explain various parts and answer questions, covering the significance of different actions, prayers, and symbols.
Thanks to the preparation and participation, the children were more engaged and attentive, and the adults learned new things about a familiar ritual. As a result, some of the children are now even singing in the choir.

By demystifying the Liturgy, Father John helped bridge the gap between participation and understanding. Such instructional initiatives are invaluable in nurturing a vibrant and informed faith community.