Scripture

Take courage, my child, your sins are forgiven. (Matthew 9:2)

Mission Statement

Elementary First Reconciliation ministry provides assistance to parents in the instruction of their children on the nature of sin and the need for God's forgiveness, prepares the children to experience God's love and mercy in the celebration of first confession, and encourages families to participate regularly in the practice of the sacrament to continue grace-filled lives in friendship with God.

Ministry Description

Volunteer should have a desire to teach children how to prepare for and make a good confession. Volunteers are to have a commitment to the church's liturgical and sacramental life, be obedient to her moral teachings; and be confirmed in the Catholic faith. Effective teaching techniques and strategies are beneficial, as well as having a basic understanding of Catholic teaching, Scripture and Tradition. All volunteers must 1) complete a three-hour VIRTUS "Protecting God's Children" training, 2) pass a criminal background check before beginning and 3) attend a one-hour training in September.

Activities

• Learn the Ten Commandments
• Memorize an Act of Contrition
• Make an Examination of Conscience
• Learn and practice the steps to a good confession

Events

• Sacrament orientation in late September
• Two instructional classes on site
• Three instructional classes at home
• One Saturday morning "Forgiveness Fair" retreat
• One scheduled readiness interview prior to the sacrament
• One communal penance service with individual confessions

Volunteer/Service Opportunities

Volunteers with children teach three classroom lessons (see meeting times), participate as a center leader in the half-day Forgiveness Fair retreat, interview children at the readiness interviews and assist with the First Reconciliation Liturgy, if needed. There are a wide variety of opportunities to volunteer with adults, such as communicating with parents, assisting with the parent orientation, helping with set up or clean up, leading large or small group discussions. Teaching adult catechesis (with the approval from the Archdiocese).

Note: This ministry is for baptized and catechized children, in grades 2nd - 6th.