Catechetical Newsletter(Click here for a list of previous articles to read.)
We've Only Just Begun!
By Anita M. Foley
Senior Sales Representative
“What’s the date of First Communion next year? I have to schedule a party.”
“Does the whole family HAVE to come to First Reconciliation?”
“What do the children wear?”
When beginning this year’s sacrament preparation program, well-intentioned parents will ask catechetical leaders similar questions. These questions challenge program directors to ponder how to prepare children for a lifetime of celebrating God’s forgiveness and of being nourished at the table of the Lord.
How can you foster an understanding that the celebration of Reconciliation and Eucharist for the first time does not signal the completion of a program but rather celebrates the continuation of the spiritual journey begun at Baptism?
Here are six ideas which support a parish vision that the reception of sacraments for the first time celebrates a lifetime lived in the generosity of a loving and gracious God.
- Eliminate the word “first”. When saying “FIRST” Communion or “FIRST” Reconciliation the implication is that the preparation is for a single event in the life of the child. Talk about that special day as the first of many celebrations.
- Incorporate adult faith formation into the process. When gathering with parents, offer adult catechesis about the sacrament. Make the gathering a formational event rather than limiting it to a list of requirements. Give parents an opportunity to share their experiences. Celebrate a ritual prayer helping parents prepare spiritually.
- Include other significant adults in the preparation process. Invite godparents, grandparents, and special neighbors to participate in the candidate’s retreat day, church tour, and other gatherings.
- Be intentional about engaging the parish community. During the preparation time, include a general intercession for the intention of the children. Create parish prayer angels assigning a specific child to a senior parishioner asking them to pray for their young spiritual companion.
- Be welcoming to parents and guardians who bring children of an older age to
the parish to celebrate sacraments. Look at these encounters as moments of grace.
- Gather after the celebration. Offer a session that will give the children and adults an opportunity to reflect upon the ritual celebration. Discuss the question, “What difference does this sacrament make in my life?” Help the families make a connection between the ritual celebration and their everyday life.
By incorporating these ideas, program directors and catechists can lead families to a lifetime of celebrating Eucharist and Reconciliation, empowering parents and children to discover ways in which they can experience lives of discipleship.
About Anita
Anita Foley, Senior Sales Representative for RCL Benziger is a member of the Archdiocese of Newark Liturgical Commission. Anita holds the MA in Religious Education from Seton Hall University in South Orange, NJ, and has served in various leadership roles in parishes and schools throughout her career.