Youth servers line up with their candles for the entrance procession.  The lighted candles are a way of showing reverence for the presence of Christ.  The candles accompany the cross, the icon, and the gospel book. Youth readers stand ready to join in the entrance procession.  They are not afraid to read in front of hundreds of people.  The word of God is important and they want everyone to hear it loud and clear! The Schola Cantorum sings as the entrance procession begins.  These young people take singing seriously!  They work hard all year round to become excellent musicians.  They even work over the summer!  (Click here.) The younger choirs, St. Cecilia and St. Gregory, lead the assembly in singing the music of the Mass.  Alleluia! All the children gathered around Father Ryan's chair for a special blessing.  This is what Father Ryan said: Lord Jesus Christ, you loved children so much that you said: 'Whoever welcomes a child welcomes me.' Hear our prayers for these young people. Send your blessing upon them. Help them grow in Christian maturity so that, by the power of the Holy Spirit, they may become your witnesses in the world. May they persevere in faith throughout their lives and come one day to that kingdom where you live and reign forever and ever. Amen.