WILL OUR KIDS HAVE FAITH?

A Wake-Up Call for Catholics
Parents, Catholic schools and parishes have every reason to worry that our young people are drifting away from the Church. In a major national study it was discovered that, despite all the wonderful programs, initiatives and guidance that parishes and schools provide, Catholic teenagers consistently scored lower on most measures of religiosity — 5 to 25 percentage points lower than their conservative, mainline, and black Protestant peers.
This eye-opening presentation will:
• Explore the startling findings of the National Study of Youth & Religion (NSYR);
• Point us towards the critical make-or-break ingredients for teen faith;
• Offer practical ideas for parents, parishes and pastors that can really make a difference!

Date: Tuesday
September 23, 2008
Time: 7:00 – 9:00pm

First Reconciliation and First Communion Parent Meeting
September 22nd, 23rd & 24th, 2008 - Monday 5-6:30 and 6:45-8:25 - Tuesday 5-6:30 - Church
CHOOSE ONE DAY AND TIME!

Parents are to choose one of the days and times above to attend a parent meeting about preparing their child for the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. Registration will take place at the parent meetings. Registration is required for all children celebrating these sacraments at St. Max during 2008-2009 (including those already registered in RFY or at an Archdiocesan Catholic School). If you have questions, please contact Mary Montour at 777-4322 x120 or mmontour@saint-max.org.  It is important for parents to know that children are required to prepare for the sacrament of Reconciliation before preparing for the sacrament of Eucharist. Children are also required to complete a regular religious education program through RFY, RFY Home Study, or at a Catholic school.

Liturgy of the Word for Children

We need your help. This is a liturgical ministry for young children attending mass. Adults and high school teens lead the children in celebrating the Liturgy of the Word (portion of mass) in the conference room using the Lectionary for Masses with Children and giving a scripture reflection. It is necessary to have at least 2 adults present. We need leaders and we also need subs. Training and resources will be provided. Contact Colleen Gerke at 777-4322 ext. 106 or cgerke@saint-max.org. Please prayerfully consider participating in this rewarding ministry.

Purpose of Liturgy of the Word for Children

Liturgy of the Word for Children is a ministry at St. Max to support the full, conscious and active participation of children in the mass. This ministry is offered at all Sunday (Saturday 4:30) liturgies unless there is a conflict with the Conference Room. Liturgy of the Word for Children is prepared to meet the needs of children in grades 1 through 3. If you have more questions or would like to volunteer for this very valuable ministry please contact Gloria Vesper our ministry coordinator at 860-0516 or the Colleen Gerke, Director of Faith Formation at 777-4322 ext. 106.

Emergency Procedure for Liturgy of the Word for Children

In case of an emergency during mass, we ask all parents of children attending Liturgy of the Word for Children to follow the directions of the presider and ushers in exiting the church quickly, orderly and calmly. Do not go to the Conference Room to find your child. This will cause congestion and confusion compromising the safety of the children and their adult volunteer ministers. Volunteer ministers will follow the safety directions for exiting the Conference with the children. The volunteer ministers will lead the children to the northeastern corner of the St. Max parking lot. Parents and guardians once outside safely, please go the northeastern corner of the parking lot to meet your child. Please do not remove your child from the designated outside safety area without informing the adults who are caring for your child. They will have you record and sign out that you are taking your child from the designated safety area.

Partners in Faith

A monthly insert that supports Faith Formation in the home.  This resource, Partners in Faith, will normally go in the bulletin on the first Sunday of the Month September through May.  Spanish versions will be available in the gathering space each month.  We hope you enjoy this user friendly resource.

September 2008

You can learn more about Family Life at
The Archdiocese of Cincinnati Family Life Office
(421-3131)