|
Do This in Memory is a parish based sacramental preparation programme for children preparing for First Communion. It takes place in the context of the parish Sunday Eucharist. It is then continued in the home through the use of activities and resources for both parents/guardians and children. This highlights the importance of the Sunday Eucharist as a celebration where we gather, are nourished by the Word and the Bread of Life, and are sent forth to live the Gospel. It also acknowledges the home as the most important and significant place, where the faith of our children is nurtured, nourished and sustained. In designing this programme we have identified four cornerstones which lay the foundation for sound community-based sacramental preparation. • The sacramental preparation of children is the responsibility of the home, school and parish working together in partnership. • The work of sacramental preparation begins long before the First Eucharist celebration. • The celebration of First Eucharist is a sacred and important moment on a long journey of faith development. Together with Baptism and Confirmation it opens the door to full membership of the Christian community. It is not an end in itself. • The sacramental preparation of our children must always be seen as one element of the broader task of whole-community catechesis. Do This in Memory is offered as a resource to parish communities. We believe that the greatest benefit will be obtained if the programme is used as designed. However, it can also be adapted and used in a way that is most appropriate to the needs and circumstances of a particular parish community.
|