Forgiven and free

After about a month (or perhaps it was six weeks or so) of preparation, some of our little friends celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the very first time last night.  It seemed like only the other day that we had first set eyes on these little ones, and that they had first set eyes on the team that has been working to prepare them for this day.  Thankfully, they all knew at least some of us right from the start: that made it easier to break the ice, and easier for us to begin the process of teaching them about the beauty of this sacrament which seems to be ignored so often in modern society.

Through the use of games and crafts, combined with creative learning opportunities, our little friends made great strides, and surprised us all with the depth of their perception, their openness to the lessons offered, and the wonder with which they approached this evening celebration.

At times, it's nowhere near as difficult to teach children as it is to invite their parents into a meaningful dialogue, but dare I even dream that we have succeeded (to some measure) this year, thanks to the invaluable assistance of one of our friends who offered (or was she conscripted) to help with the explanation of barriers which we sometimes erect ourselves, and which make it all the more easier for us to hide from our duties to live the life to which we were called.  What greater gift can we offer to our little ones, than to share with them the gift of faith, unless we ourselves have lost hope.

Thankfully, our faith assures us the plenitude of hope, even strong enough to overcome despair.

When all was said and done, the celebration of this sacrament was a moment of grace, both for the children and for their parents.  People walked out the door at the end of the evening, refreshed, renewed in spirit, and with smiles on their faces.  I dare to hope that many if not all of them rediscovered the power of Christ's forgiveness, and renewed their own resolve to live as people of faith.