Confirmation Students and Parents meeting

Murtha Hall was graced with the presence of Confirmation students and their parents on Sunday October 20 ^th evening. Fr. Peter, Director of Religious Education Joyce Leach and teacher Paul Brucker welcomed them all.

All parents were there except one who had been sick. The purpose of the meeting was to connect with parents. The diocese insists on the necessity of parents’ involvement in the faith formation of their children. Aren’t they the first teachers of faith to their children?

Fr. Peter began saying, “I do understand your problem. Besides your tight work schedule and family obligations, you are mostly on the road to give ride to your children. Now I request you to understand my problem as a pastor. I, along with many pastors, have the fear that I may lose some of you when I am strict with class and Mass attendance. If you don’t come to Mass your children obviously cannot be blamed.” There commenced a pleasant conversation which resulted in consensus on a few issues.

Fr. Peter gave a small questionnaire to be responded by parents and students. The responses are indicative of deeper problems lying beneath our faith life. Take a look at the questionnaire and responses by PARENTS and STUDENTS .

The young are the future and hope of the Church. We, the church, the parents, the families and in fact every system in our society are obligated to impart our faith (doctrine and observance) to the next generation. Catholic faith is much more than a printed formula or intellectual retaining. It is our way of life. Blessing with Holy water and perpetual tabernacle candle do have direct meaning and effects in our lives. It is our responsibility to live and hand over this Catholic culture.  

Everybody is breathing for time. But if we do not find time, time will have no time for us. Parents should find time for God and faith by setting priorities right. Evolvement of an empathetic understanding between the church and parents has become a necessity. We welcome parents and their children as they are into our church. They will in turn strengthen the church.