One of the most significant responsibilities of Orthodox Christian parents is introducing children to the Divine Liturgy. The Liturgy is not merely a Sunday obligation but a participation in Christ’s very life. It is where heaven meets earth and we, as the Body of Christ, unite with Him and one another.
As St. John Chrysostom reminds us: “The church is an inn for the sick and a harbor for those in distress.”
Our children must grasp that the Divine Liturgy is not merely a ritual but a sacred mystery where we meet Christ, receive His healing, and grow in faith. However, helping young minds engage with something so profound requires patience, consistency, and a thoughtful approach. Here are some ways parents can guide their children towards a deeper understanding and love for the Divine Liturgy.
Lead by Example
Children learn best by observing their parents. They will naturally begin to emulate us when they see us approaching the Liturgy with reverence, joy, and love. If we view the Divine Liturgy as the most significant event of our week—by arriving on time, preparing our hearts, and participating actively—our children will internalize this mindset.
Christ Himself said: “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:14).
Take your children to church regularly, no matter how restless they may be. Their ability to sit still and focus will improve over time, but the key is helping them feel at home in church.
Prepare Their Hearts Before Liturgy
A child’s experience of the Liturgy is significantly influenced by what happens at home before they arrive at church. Guide them in understanding what to expect by:
- Reading the Gospel beforehand: Read the upcoming Sunday Gospel as a family, explaining it simply and allowing them to ask questions.
- Encourage them to say short prayers before church, such as, “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me,” or a prayer for the priest and those who will receive Communion.
- Helping them fast: If they are old enough, encourage them to observe the Eucharistic fast (no food or drink from midnight until Communion) according to their ability. This will reinforce the idea that we should prepare to receive Christ with care.
Fostering a sense of anticipation and spiritual readiness will engage children more when they enter the church.
Engage Their Senses in Worship
The Orthodox Divine Liturgy brims with beauty—incense, chanting, icons, candles, and vestments—all of which communicate with children in ways that transcend words. Encourage them to engage in worship wit
h their entire being:
- Icons – Introduce the icons in the church, explaining who they represent and how they remind us of the saints and Christ’s presence.
- Music – Teach them to listen to the hymns; as they grow older, encourage them to sing along with simple responses.
- Incense and Candles – Encourage them to light a candle and make the cross sign, teaching that these small actions are forms of prayer.
- Vestments – Describe the various colors and their meanings so they can relate them to the Church calendar.
As St. Basil the Great said: “When the Holy Spirit sees a soul rising up in its desire for Him, He is drawn to it.“ Children will develop a deeper appreciation for the Divine Liturgy by making these elements familiar and meaningful.
Teach Them About Holy Communion
One of the most important things to teach children is that Holy Communion is truly the Body and Blood of Christ. Christ Himself said: “This is My Body… This is My Blood” (Matthew 26:26-28).
From a young age, help them understand that when they receive Communion, they receive Christ Himself. Encourage them to approach the Chalice with faith, humility, and love. If they are old enough, teach them to say a short prayer before receiving, such as: “O Lord, I believe and confess that You are truly the Christ, the Son of the Living God…”
It is also important to emphasize the significance of proper preparation—fasting, prayer, and, when necessary, confession—as they grow older. Teaching children the sacredness of this moment will help them cherish it for life.
Encourage Participation
Even young children can participate in the Liturgy in small ways. Encourage them to:
- Make the sign of the cross at appropriate times.
- Stand when the Gospel is read.
- Say “Lord, have mercy” and “Amen” with the congregation.
- Watch the movements of the clergy and altar servers.
As they grow, encourage them to take on more responsibility, such as learning to chant in the choir, serving at the altar (for boys), or helping to bake prosphora.
The Bible reminds us: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it” (Proverbs 22:6). Giving children a role in worship, we help them develop a sense of belonging and ownership in their faith.
Be Patient and Trust in God’s Grace
Not every Sunday will be perfect. Children will have days when they feel restless or uninterested. Instead of getting discouraged, remember that raising them in the Liturgy is a long-term journey. Even if they don’t understand everything now, the prayers, hymns, and experiences will stay with them.
St. Porphyrios said: “The best education is to let children live in an environment of holiness.”
The more we immerse them in the beauty and grace of the Divine Liturgy, the more their hearts will be shaped in Christ.
Teaching children about the Divine Liturgy is one of the greatest gifts we can offer them. By leading by example, preparing their hearts, engaging their senses, educating them about Holy Communion, encouraging participation, and practicing patience, we assist them in building a lifelong relationship with Christ and His Church.