Ideas

"Parents are the primary educators on the faith. . . .The family as a locus of catechesis has an unique privilege: transmitting the Gospel by rooting it in the context of profound human values." General Directory for Catechesis(GDC) #255

"This childhood religious awakening which takes place in the family is irreplaceable . . . It is deepened all the more when parents comment on the more methodical catechesis which their children later receive in the Christian community and help them to appropriate it. Indeed, "Family catechesis preceded. . . accompanies and enriches all forms of catechesis." GDC#226

The Born of the Spirit and We are Strong Together Catechetical resources provide opportunities for a continual link with the family. Family, parish and catechist can work together in building a strong spiritual foundation for the children and youth. The Born of the Spirit resources provide three main ways to engage the family.

The child's book can provide a strong link with the home when it is sent home each week in the treasure bag. The child becomes a storyteller at home by using the pictures and stories in the book to share their experience with the group. The child's book also contains prayers and a remember section. These short statements provide a personal wording of belief appropriate to their age.
Celebrations are an important part of each year level. Just as children learn to pray by praying, children will learn how the Christian community celebrates by celebrating. Through music, responses, processions, stories with gestures and ritual action, children and families can celebrate together.
Engaging the family sections are included in each resource. These sections provide ideas, information, invitation to celebrations, home activities and prayers for the family.

Family Prayer
By Bishop Faber MacDonald 2003

Bishop MacDonald's book on family prayer is an "appeal for restoration of prayer to the Domestic Church". The introduction provides an understanding of prayer and methods to meet and pray as a family. The book is filled with examples of prayer that families can use in many different situations.
Definitely a book you will want to have in your home as you pray together as a family. Available through your parish or the Catholic Book Store.

God Knows Grandparents Make a Difference: Ways to share your wisdom

By Priscilla J. Herbison and Cynthia Herbison

Tambornino
Sorin Books Notre Dame IN 2003

Herbison and Tambornino share their unique perspectives on grandparenting. Their words and stories are meant to encourage reflection about the joys and sorrows, challenges and privileges of grandparenting.
Grandparents are encouraged to find their own wisdom.
To borrow contact your Regional Resource Centre. For a complete listing of our resources, see our resource page .

God Knows Parenting is a Wild Ride

By Kathy Coffey
Sorin Books Notre Dame IN 2002

Coffey shares her knowledge and experience, coupling warm entertaining stories with numerous bright and practical ideas on parenting.
This book should give you a new or renewed appreciation for your child and a deeper respect for parenting.
To borrow contact your Regional Resource Centre . For a complete list of resources, check our resource page .