Advent Opens Children to the Wonders of the Faith
Designed for adult choirs, children's choirs, liturgical celebrations, liturgies with children and catechetical moments, the album offers 14 wonderful new songs for Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. Miriam Malone, SNJMWith the First Sunday of Advent, the Church gathers us into a new cycle of Scripture readings to sustain us on our lifelong journey of faith. The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) outlines four aspects of formation for discipleship along this journey: catechesis, community, liturgy and mission (75). The beginning of this liturgical year sets the context for a more in-depth look at the first two components—catechesis and community—for all of us who seek to find meaning in the liturgy with and for our children. Catechesis that Transforms Matthew’s Gospel will be the guide and inspiration for catechesis as we follow the mysteries of faith presented in the Year A readings that call us to hear, respond to and act on our call to the Christian discipleship. Catechesis that transforms minds and hearts will emerge from the Sunday proclamation as it is shared in the assembly of faith and further broken open by catechists, parents and siblings. Imagine what might happen in your parish if households dedicated one night per week to “eating” God’s Word together prior to sharing food. The Rite of Baptism for Children reminds us that children must be formed in the faith into which they have been baptized. Such Christian formation is “their due” and we parents, pastors and catechists are responsible to “lead them gradually to learn God’s plan in Christ” (2). During the seasons of Advent and Lent there are significant opportunities for carrying out this sacred responsibility. A Season of Compassion, Justice and Fun! Our children are particularly open to the wonders of our faith in Advent as the magic of Christmas begins to frame their world. We adults can choose to see even the materialistic, consumer-oriented environment through sacramental eyes. We can use the signs and symbols that overtake our television ads, shopping malls and web sites to gently guide children into more contemplative and faith-full attitudes toward waiting, giving, receiving, singing and sharing, and toward environment, color, sound, resources, decorations and celebrations. Imagine what might happen in your parish if the adults in each household made the commitment to help children make the connections between the barrage of holiday stimuli and the precious presence of God-With-Us in sacrament and table gathering. Let’s not take away the fun; use what’s out there to draw children into a deep sense of wonder, a sense of compassion for others, and a desire for justice—all of which children are truly capable. The Importance of Household Rituals Lent offers an equally rich opportunity as we focus on the intentional practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. What household rituals might we begin or enhance? Do we believe in the power of the simplest of rituals to have a significant impact on the formation of our children? As a child, I never left the house for school without hearing my Mother say, “Good bye. God bless you. Have a nice day.” Every day it was the same. And every day (and to this day!) I felt safe, blessed, loved and protected by this simple ritual. Fasting and almsgiving can go hand-in-hand as households gather around the table to share a simple meal and ideas for sharing with people who are poorer than we. What are the needs in the parish, in the civic community, on the global scene; what is the news bringing to our attention and what contribution can we make, however small, to building a better world? Imagine what might happen in your parish if the adults in each household made the commitment to help children make the connections between the table at home and the world outside! Imagine what might happen if each family journeyed through Advent and Lent not as individuals, but together as a community of faith and justice sensitive to the needs of the wider community! Catechesis and community are indeed essential elements of sharing liturgy and life with children. We know that the aim of catechesis is to lead believers to a deeper knowledge and love of Christ and the Church and a firm commitment to follow the Gospel way (cf. National Directory for Catechesis). During Advent and Lent, let us first notice and then seize the many opportunities to catechize and make a difference in the community within home, church, school, neighborhood, and world. Explore with the children: What do you see, hear and notice? What does that mean? What do we Christians believe about that? What shall we do about it? Imagine… Holy Names Sister Miriam Malone is an author and teacher, known for her expertise in the areas of Christian initiation and liturgical catechesis. She founded SNJM FIRE for Ministry (www.snjmfire.com), which offers facilitation, in-service, retreats, and education opportunities for faith-based groups. She teaches at Holy Names University in Oakland, California. |
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