Level I children receive various presentations on gestures of the mass. The children learn that a "gesture" is a motion that has meaning, such as a wave hello. The youngest children are able to understand the deep meaning of gestures even if they cannot yet verbalize their understanding. So, introducing them to the gestures of the mass helps them to connect with the mass, especially in light of the fact that they may not yet connect well with spoken prayers.

The gesture of Epiclesis occurs toward the beginning of the Eucharistic Prayer. The priest will move his two hands, palms-down, over the bread and wine, saying the words (new translation from the 3rd edition of the Roman Missal):

Therefore, O Lord, we humbly implore you:

by the same spirit

graciously make holy these gifts

we brought to you for consecration,

that they may become

the Body and Blood of your Son our Lord Jesus Christ.

The gesture of Offering is the time in the Eucharistic Prayer when the priest holds up high the Body and Blood of Christ and says the words of the Doxology (new translation):

Through him, and with him, and in him,

O God, almighty Father,

in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

all glory and honor is yours,

forever and ever.

And the whole congregation joyfully responds with the Great Amen.

One purpose of introducing children to these gestures of the mass is to help them connect to the mass. Another purpose is for them to start to understand the incredible gift of the Eucharistic. This is a work that will take years, and it is so important that we begin right away, even at age three.