On a cold December 8 the church at Stainforth was packed with all the children and teachers from Holy Family School, governors and parents for the celebration of Mass for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. Unfortunately the heating had broken down only days before so the church was not its usual welcoming self despite valiant efforts by parishioners with a gas heater closely resembling a rocket! The onset of pneumonia was alleviated by the music warm-up which on this occasion also involved stamping of feet and clapping of hands!

The Directory for Masses with Children will provide the guidance priests, teachers, musicians and catechists need regarding the provision of Mass in a manner appropriate to children (when these are in the majority). There are considerable differences between the more adult experience including possible reductions in the numbe of readings, use of special eucharisitic prayers etc.