Now that we are in the first week of November, many of you have had several weeks of religious education classes. Some of the children have been coming regularly, but have you noticed that others are dropping out already? That is not unusual with today's busy schedules! Call or email the parents with a "I haven't seen your child in class for a couple of sessions. Is everything alright? Is there anything I can do for you?" If the child is in a sacramental preparation class, remind the parents how important it is to be prepared for Penance and Eucharist. If necessary, enlist the pastor's help.
The Saints Party
We tried an all-community event that actually can be done at any time during the year--in November at All Saints Day, or on your patron saint's feast day! Our teachers chose a saint to represent each class. Between our liturgies, we had a Saints Party. The Pre-school class did a parade of angels with wings and halos. The Pre-Kindergarten class also had a parade of saints. The Kindergarten through Seventh grades each presented the life of a saint to students, parents, grandparents and friends. The costumes were amazing! After the presentations, the Eighth grade and High School students supervised "saints" games they had created for the children with candy as prizes. Coffee, juice and pastries were available for the congregation. It was great to see so many people fill the hall to see our parish children!
Below are several links that may be helpful to you.
Structuring A Lesson Plan (Pre-School Through 6)
For Reconciliation classes:
The Seven Mysteries
Me and God: Examination of Conscience
The Child's Moral Development
Reconciliation/Penance
