1st Sacraments
RECONCILIATION AND EUCHARIST
"The guidelines set by the Bishop for the Diocese of Richmond for preparing children for Sacraments" state that formation sessions for parents of sacramental candidates are to be provided and that they are to precede those of the children. Specifically, the "guidelines" state:
Initial sessions with the parents precede the sessions with the children and their catechists...and help deepen their understanding of the sacraments.
Even though they might have previously participated in this sacramental preparation with a now older child, it is important that parents take part each time one of their children approaches the sacraments.
On-going continuous participation in religious formation (i.e., participation in Children's Liturgy of the Word and Elementary Catechesis or Catholic School is required for reception of the sacraments.)
Here at Good Shepherd, we meet these guidelines through a two-year process. Families are invited to enter the process when a child is approaching the typical age for preparation of Reconciliation and Eucharist and after the child has completed one full year of formation. This formation can take place in Elementary Catechesis and Liturgy of the Word, or attending Catholic School beginning with the first grade.
The goal of our formation for Penance and Eucharist is to touch hearts in ways that go beyond the single event of reception of the Sacraments and invite families into a fuller, more deeply rewarding sacramental life. To that end, we incorporate many of the Rites of the Church, its rituals, retreat experiences and sound catechetical materials in our preparation process. We encourage a response based on a true desire to commit to the journey rather than one based on age.
For further detail, see contacts below.
Contact:
Jodi Stambaugh, Coordinator of Religious Education
(757) 365-0579