Sacramental Preparation
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new changes - WE NEED YOU!
In order to receive the Sacraments for the first time, children and their parents will receive a personalized pathway to the Sacraments. Dependent on the personalized pathway, parents and their children will participate in classes and retreats designed to engage the whole family. In our family sacrament preparation, parents and their children will be invited to encounter the heart of Jesus in the midst of his Church!
With new changes, we invite the whole parish to pray about one of the roles down below!
how to help with family sacrament prep
1. Look over the list of roles:2. Pray about which role makes sense for you!
3. Sign up to help! Reach out to Anne for any questions. Thank you!
VOLUNTEERregister for family sacrament prep
Register Here
How it Works!
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Contact
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anne.monninst-louis.orgAssociate Director of Sacrament Preparation (English)
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Calendar
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First ReconCiliAtion
First Reconciliation is celebrated when readiness is discerned!
1. Understanding the Sacrament
- Education: Families should understand the significance of reconciliation, which includes acknowledging sins, seeking forgiveness, and receiving absolution.
- Catechesis: Providing children with age-appropriate catechesis about sin, forgiveness, and the love of God is essential.
2. Spiritual Preparation
- Prayer: Encouraging regular family prayer to foster a spiritual environment that supports confession.
- Reflection: Families should practice examination of conscience to help identify areas where forgiveness is needed.
3. Emotional Readiness
- Comfort and Support: Parents should ensure children feel comfortable and supported, addressing any fears or misconceptions about confession.
- Modeling: Parents can model the importance of reconciliation by participating in the sacrament themselves and sharing their experiences.
4. Practical Preparation
- Scheduling: Plan and schedule a time for the sacrament that works for the family, avoiding rushed or stressful situations.
- Knowledge of Process: Familiarize children with the steps of the sacrament, including what to expect during confession.
5. Community and Church Support
- Parish Programs: Participate in parish programs designed to help parents prepare their children for the Sacrament.
- Clergy Involvement: Seek guidance and support from priests or catechists who can provide additional insight and encouragement.
6. Post-Sacrament Reflection
- Celebration: Celebrate the completion of the sacrament with a positive family activity, reinforcing the joy of receiving God’s forgiveness.
- Continued Practice: Encourage regular participation in the sacrament of reconciliation as part of ongoing spiritual growth.
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First communion
First Communion is celebrated after First Reconciliation when readiness is discerned!
1. Understanding the Sacrament
- Education: Families need to grasp the significance of the Eucharist, which is the celebration of the Last Supper and the real presence of Jesus Christ in the bread and wine.
- Catechesis: Age-appropriate religious education should be provided to explain the theological and scriptural basis of the Eucharist.
2. Spiritual Preparation
- Prayer: Encourage regular family prayers, especially those that focus on the Eucharist, such as prayers before and after meals.
- Reflection: Families should engage in discussions about the importance of the Eucharist, its meaning, and its role in their faith lives.
3. Emotional Readiness
- Comfort and Encouragement: Ensure children feel supported and excited about receiving the Eucharist for the first time.
- Modeling: Parents should demonstrate the importance of the Eucharist by actively participating in Mass and receiving Communion regularly.
4. Practical Preparation
- Familiarization with Mass: Take children to Mass regularly so they become familiar with the liturgy and the sequence of events.
- Knowledge of the Process: Teach children the proper way to receive Communion, including the physical gestures and the appropriate responses.
5. Community and Church Support
- Parish Programs: Engage in parish-led preparation programs or classes that are designed to help parents prepare children for their First Communion.
- Clergy Guidance: Seek support and guidance from priests, deacons, and catechists who can provide additional insight and help address any questions or concerns.
6. Celebration and Reflection
- Special Celebration: Mark the occasion with a family celebration that underscores the joy and importance of receiving the Eucharist.
- Ongoing Participation: Encourage regular participation in the Eucharist and Mass as a way to continue spiritual growth and strengthen faith.
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Rite ofChristian Initiation of adults (rcia) adapted for children
Children celebrate the sacraments during the Easter Vigil when readiness is discerned!
1. Understanding the Process
- Education: Families should understand the purpose and stages of the RCIA process, which prepares children for full initiation into the Catholic Church through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
- Catechesis: Provide children with age-appropriate religious education that explains the core beliefs and practices of the Catholic faith.
2. Spiritual Preparation
- Prayer: Establish a routine of family prayer to create a spiritually supportive environment.
- Reflection: Encourage regular discussions about faith, God, and the significance of becoming a member of the Catholic Church.
3. Emotional Readiness
- Support and Encouragement: Ensure children feel comfortable and supported throughout the process. Address any concerns or anxieties they might have.
- Modeling: Parents should actively participate in their own faith practices to set an example for their children.
4. Practical Preparation
- Regular Attendance: Attend Mass regularly as a family to help children become familiar with the liturgy and the community.
- Participation in RCIA Sessions: Make a commitment to attend all RCIA sessions, rites, and related activities as a family.
5. Community and Church Support
- Parish Involvement: Engage with parish programs that support RCIA for children, such as classes, retreats, and community events.
- Clergy and Catechist Guidance: Seek support and mentorship from priests, deacons, and catechists who can provide spiritual guidance and answer questions throughout the process.
6. Celebration and Integration
- Rite of Acceptance: Celebrate the milestones within the RCIA process, such as the Rite of Acceptance, to recognize the child’s commitment and progress.
- Post-Initiation Participation: Encourage ongoing participation in parish life and continued growth in faith after the initiation sacraments are received.
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