OCIC

Sacrament Prep

OCIC Zoom Retreat Weekend Highlights!

Our OCIC Zoom retreats were spirit-filled, engaging, and highly productive. Children explored the meaning of the Sacraments as outward signs of inward transformation, with a focus on Baptism, God’s grace and mercy, Original Sin, venial and mortal sin, Reconciliation, and the Holy Eucharist.

Sessions included video lessons, discussions, interactive games like Kahoot! for a recap of the first retreat, and a Jeopardy style game for review of day two. The children were placed into breakout rooms for age-appropriate deeper learning. Highlights included the stories of Adam & Eve, the Prodigal Son, and the Last Supper, along with guidance on how to make a confession and prepare to receive Holy Communion.

Families are strongly encouraged to use the video resources on this OCIC website, which are grouped below for little kids, middle/high school students, and all ages. Parents are asked to watch the videos as well, so they can confidently answer questions and support practice at home.

📆An in-person visit to the confessional is planned during Lent.

💞As always, thank you for your and support and we pray God continues to bless your family’s faith journey.

We missed you on the Zoom Meeting, but don't worry . . .

Both retreats were recorded. The retreat recordings will be posted on the website.

Any missed sessions will require your child

Watch the videos
Complete a post-viewing assessment.

Attend an in-person visit to the confessional (Planned during Lent.)

With Original Sin we inherit, fear, shame, & despair

Original Sin we inherited from Adam & Eve, this sin is washed away with the Sacrament of Baptism

God knew Free Will meant we would also have to live with the consequence of sin. He give us Grace, grants us Mercy, and has made a covenant with us through the 10 Commandments to help us endure our choices.

Grace & Mercy

In the Story of Adam & Eve although they were disobedient, God shows Mercy, but they are still required to experience the consequence of their sin and are expelled from the Paradise and made mortal.

God shows Grace to Adam and Eve, promising their descendants would receive the Gift of Jesus who would Save the World.

GRACE is a loving gift from God. We cannot earn it, do not need to ask for it, and we are blessed to have it.

MERCY is a loving act of compassion. Although God could punish us and we deserve it because of our sin, His Mercy endures forever!

God's tenderness includes the covenant of the 10 Commandments. His sacred contract, where He gave us a set of guidelines to help us avoid sin.

God's Gift of Grace! The Sacrament of Baptism

Sacraments are external signs we can see and do that change us internally which we cannot see.

Baptism is considered the first sacrament because it is an Sacrament of Initiation along with Confirmation and Eucharist because these sacraments welcomes us into the church and strengthens our Faith!

The outward signs of Baptism includes water, oils, candles, prayers and more. Through faith the internal transformation of removing the Original Sin from our soul takes place.

10 Commandments Guidelines for Living

Your child understands the 10 Commandments are not a list of "Do's & Don't", but should be understood as loving guidelines. One, Two, & Three are a guidelines for our relationship directly with God and the remaining seven are about our relationship with one another!

The Greatest Commandments

We can keep all ten commandments if we follow the instructions described in Jesus's greatest commandment in Matthew 22:37-38 & Mark 12:30

Examination of Conscience

When we take the Sacrament of Reconciliation. We use the 10 Commandments to Examine our Conscience. This video asks questions to consider if you have strayed from the guidelines and committed a sin that you will need to confess during the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Mortal Sin & Venial Sin visual demonstration

Venial Sins are smaller sins that damage our relationship with God and one another and if we have a sincere apologetic heart we can fix the damage. We must be cautious to not let a venial sin become a habit. If it does become a habit we will need to removed it with the Sacrament of Reconciliation

Mortal Sins are very serious sins that damage relationship and cut our connection with God and one another. If we have allowed a venial in to be comes a habit it becomes a mortal sin. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is required to restore our relationship with God and our community for any Mortal Sin.

Older Kids Mortal Sin & Venial Sin a reflection with Fr. Mike

The Prodigal Son a story of Forgiveness

This Kid Friendly video illustrates how the loving gift of Forgiveness

Child's guide series for First Reconciliation

This popular book series provides an easy to understand narrative and sets expectations . Your child must learn the Act of Contrition prayer featured

Elementary How to make your Reconciliation

This video illustrates the steps, actions, and traditional words used to accept the Holy Communion during Mass. We encourage you to practice.

The Do's & Don't of Confession

Answers to frequently asked questions on taking the Sacrament of Reconciliation

The Act of Contrition

This is the Act Of Contrition you child should learn for their first Reconciliation.

Remember sin is not only about the things you do, but includes the decisions and actions you failed to take to help other when you had an opportunity to share your light as a Christian (i.e. stop bullying, participating in gossip, failing to avoid sin). Reflect on this Prayer!

Teens - How to make your Reconciliation

The actual steps of the making a confession

This is relatable look at the steps involved in making a confession. Since this is your first time you will start with,

"Bless me Father, for I have sinned. This is my First Confession"

Examination of Your Conscience

Typically we reflect on the 10 Commandments to "figure out what we should confess", but your older child should dig a little deeper and consider how their actions have affected their relationship with God and in people their community.

Making a Good Confession is more than knowing the steps!

Focus on the actions you taken that have put distance between yourself and God and your Community! Sincere sorry should be expressed for your choices & a firm resolution to avoid future sin.

The MASS

In this humorous presentation we are guided step by step through a Mass during Ordinary Times. Please watch with your children and have them point out the similarities to our weekly church Mass at St. Mary of the Purification during you next visit

Christ established the Eucharist during the Last Supper

This Kid Friendly video illustrates how The last Supper Bible Story.

Child's guide series for First Holy Communion

This popular book series provides an easy to understand narrative and sets expectations

How to Take Communion.

This video illustrates the steps, actions, and traditional words used to accept the Holy Communion during Mass. We encourage you to practice.

Middle & High school kids

These larger concepts are being discussed with your children during the retreat and each Sunday during CCE class. This video can provide helpful information for your family.

Middle & High school kids

The Miracle of the Eucharist! The Bible has been preparing us for the Eucharist since Adam & Eve. Learn more with this video which is a A reflection for Catholic families.

How-To Guide for accepting the Eucharist

Sacrament 101 - The Holy Eucharist is the Sacred Meal we have each time we gather together following the instructions of Christ.

Eucharist (what we believe)

Sacrament 201 - Fr. Steven Bell, CSP, answers more questions about what Catholics believe about the Eucharist and receiving Communion

Our Retreats were Moved to ZOOM

OCIC Retreat Series Update: January 23–24, 2026

Part I: Intro to the Sacraments (Make-Up Session)

📅 Friday, January 23, 2026 | 6:00–9:00 PM (Zoom)

This session was for children who missed the November retreat. We did finish earlier, as the hands-on activities and snack breaks are excluded. This Zoom was a camera-on event and was recorded. An edited version of the video and follow-up mandatory assessment will be provided.

Part II: Conclusion Sacrament Preparation Retreat (All OCIC Children)

📅 Saturday, January 24, 2026 | 2:00–6:00 PM (Zoom)

This Zoom was a camera-on event and was recorded. An edited version of the video and follow-up mandatory assessment will be provided. Although we were unable to attend Mass together please review the additional video provided below.

Due to a severe and deteriorating weather conditions forecasted and out of concern for the safety of our families, both OCIC retreats were moved to online Zoom meetings.

While in-person rescheduling is not possible due to the CCE calendar, these retreats are essential to ensure children have a solid understanding of the Sacraments before continuing in their preparation

We appreciate your flexibility and understanding as we prioritize both safety & faith formation.

OCIC Retreat Series

As we continue preparing our OCIC children for full initiation into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil on April 4, 2026, I would like to clearly outline the upcoming two-part OCIC Retreat Series. Together, these retreats using, diocesan guidelines, provide essential formation for children who will receive Baptism (if applicable), Confirmation, Reconciliation, and First Eucharist.

These retreats are intentionally designed as Part I and Part II of a single formation journey, moving from theological understanding to sacramental practice.

All OCIC children will also be required to complete their First Reconciliation during the Lenten season. The specific date and details for this sacrament will be shared in a separate communication.

These retreat dates were selected based on a parent availability survey and are now firmly scheduled on the parish calendar. We are deeply grateful to the parent volunteers who have generously donated snacks and meals to support the children throughout these formation days.

If you would like to offer additional support or assistance, please email Ms. Valerie Harrison.

As always, I am happy to answer any questions regarding retreat content, expectations, or sacramental preparation.

With gratitude and loving partnership,
Ms. Ronnie Gabriel

Friday, January 23, 2026 6:00 PM–9:00 PM

For children who were unable to attend the November retreat

Part I: Intro to Sacraments Retreat (Make-Up Session)

Part I establishes the spiritual and theological foundation necessary for children to understand why the Sacraments are essential to Christian life.

During this retreat, children explore:

Original Sin and how all people are born into a brokenness that separates us from God
How God’s grace and mercy, given through the Sacrament of Baptism, wash away Original Sin and restore us to communion with Him
The meaning of sin, forgiveness, grace, mercy, and sacrifice
The Church’s teaching on venial and mortal sin
The Ten Commandments as loving guidelines that keep us connected to God and our community
Free Will, and how our choices either align us with or pull us away from the Greatest Commandment:
to love God with all our heart and mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves

Saturday, January 24, 2026 2:00 PM–6:00 PM

ALL OCIC Children. This retreat includes attending the 5:00 PM Saturday Mass

Part II: Conclusion Sacrament Preparation Retreat (All OCIC Children)

With the foundational concepts firmly in place, Part II focuses on practical, ritual, and experiential preparation for the Sacraments the children will receive at the Easter Vigil.

During this retreat, children will learn:

What to expect during the Sacrament of Reconciliation, including how to examine conscience, what to say, and how the sacrament is celebrated
How to approach the altar and receive the Eucharist reverently, including posture, responses, and meaning
What the Sacrament of Baptism will look like during the Easter Vigil for those who are unbaptized
What the Sacrament of Confirmation signifies; completing and strengthening the promises first made at Baptism and confirming the candidate’s commitment to the Catholic faith

Children will view a guided video presentation to help them visualize and understand what will take place during the Easter Vigil, where OCIC candidates will receive either:

Confirmation and First Eucharist, or
Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist

Together, these sacraments mark their full initiation into the Church.

🤍 OCIC Family FAQ 🤍

We understand that the OCIC journey can feel unfamiliar and, at times, slower than expected. Please know this process is thoughtfully paced, prayerfully planned, and carried out by dedicated volunteers who balance ministry with family and work commitments. We are grateful for your patience and want you to feel informed, supported, and confident that your child is being prepared with care and intention.

Thank you for entrusting us with this sacred season in your child’s life. Your patience, partnership, and openness allow this formation to unfold with care and reverence. We are grateful to walk this sacred journey with your family.

❓ Why are some OCIC children receiving all four Sacraments?

OCIC children are being prepared for full initiation into the Catholic Church. Some children have already been baptized, while others have not. Those who are unbaptized will receive Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist at the Easter Vigil. Those already baptized will receive Confirmation and First Eucharist. All children will also celebrate First Reconciliation prior to Easter. Each child’s sacramental path reflects where they start, but all are being fully welcomed into the life of the Church.

❓ Why do these Sacraments take place at the Easter Vigil?

The Easter Vigil is the Church’s most sacred celebration and has, from the earliest days of Christianity, been the moment when new members are fully initiated. Celebrating Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist together at the Vigil highlights the unity of these Sacraments and their connection to Christ’s Resurrection. For OCIC children, this liturgy marks not just an event, but a beginning! This is your child’s joyful entry into the life of faith they have been preparing to live.

❓ Why does preparation take so long?

Preparation is intentionally spread over time so children can understand, practice, and internalize what the Sacraments mean; not just memorize steps. The Church teaches that Sacraments are encounters with God’s grace, and that kind of formation requires reflection, maturity, and readiness. OCIC also follows diocesan guidelines that ensure children are prepared both spiritually and practically. While the pace may feel slow at times, it is designed to be steady, meaningful, and respectful of each child’s faith journey.

Sacrament Retreat

Saturday, November 8, 2025 from 2:pm to 6:30pm

Our day was filled with the first steps to understanding the sacraments we will accept on Saturday, April 4, 2026.

Meeting your children was a wonderful experience. We covered a lot of ground. Got acquainted with God's word with a quick primer about the first five books of the Old Testament. We reviewed the story of Adam & Eve, learned about their disobedience and our unfortunate inheritance of Original Sin because of their actions. We located the 10 Commandments in the Bible and discussed how these guidelines help keep us close to God. We understand that we have Free Will and can choose to follow God's rules or choose to ignore the rules. If We decided to not follow God's rules we are rejecting the gift of God's Grace and Mercy which is considered a sin. The children learned the church's definition sin and how our Faith views these transgressions as being either venial sin or mortal sin and how through Sacraments we are able to reconcile with God and have our sins forgiven. Specifically the beautiful gift of the Sacrament of Reconciliation (sometimes called Confession or Penance) is available to all sincerely seeking forgiveness .

Click images and videos in the next section to learn more and help your child reinforce their learning until we meet again Friday, January 23, 2026 (make-up retreat) & our the second retreat of our series is on Saturday, January 24, 2026.

Explored the first five books of the Bible (the Pentateuch): Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy—traditionally attributed to Moses

📖 The Bible is amazing ... but sometimes confusing and hard to read. How can we understand the whole story? You can start with the 10 Minute video.

We successfully located the 10 Commandments in Bible and discussed how they serve as guides for love and freedom.

🧑‍⚖️ There is a deeper video below, but you can click above an learn about the 10 Commandments in a "kid friendly" way.

Discussed God’s Love, Mercy, and Grace shown to humanity after the original sin of Adam and Eve.

Learned about the Sacraments as outward signs of God’s inward grace that bring transformation.

Identified the Seven Sacraments of the Church, with special focus on the four they are preparing to receive: Baptism, Reconciliation, First Eucharist, and Confirmation.

Studied Baptism as the sacrament that washes away Original Sin and welcomes us into God’s family.

We Discussed the Nature of Sin how through free-will we choose our actions and how sin separates us from God.

Venial & Mortal Sin were explained and we reflected on how sin makes us feel and affects our relationship with God and others.

Reviewed the Ten Commandments & the Greatest Commandment

Understanding that the first three guide our relationship with God, and the remaining seven guide our relationships with one another. Jesus summarized these ten laws when he gave us the Greatest Commandment as recounted in the book of Matthew chapter 22 verses 36 - 40.

Review the Seven Sacraments

The Sacraments are are gifts. These are external signs that create an internal change. For example we have the outward signs using water, oil, and the candles during the ceremony while internally we are washed clean of original sin and become members of our church family.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation

"In the name of Christ we appeal to you to be reconciled to God"

II Corinthians 5:20

Next retreat we will learn how to participate in this Sacred Sacrament. If you would like a quick review before then here is a good video to get started!

Step By Step "Making Your Confession"

We enjoy the full Ascension series taught by charismatic priest in plain language. Feel free to explore the full series or just subscribe via YouTube so you stay connected to a quick resources to answer any question you may have during your faith journey.

Ms. Ronnie Gabriel

Hello! I’m Ms. Gabriel, your child’s OCIC Sacrament catechist. I’ll be sharing reminders and resources as we walk together in this year of preparation for First Reconciliation and First Communion retreats. For quick contact and best experience, download the free TalkingPoints app: https://bit.ly/3OHpsGO

May God Bless & Keep You Safe!

Ronnie Gabriel 832-422-5076 (text or call)

🌟 OCIC Mandatory Reconciliation Retreat Saturday, November 8, 2025

Dear OCIC Families,

We are so excited to invite our OCIC candidates to the Mandatory Reconciliation Retreat on Saturday, November 8, 2025. This special afternoon is designed to help our children grow in understanding and confidence as they prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, a beautiful step on their journey of faith.

Retreat Schedule

2:00 – 5:00 PM: Workshop exploring the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Procedure of making a Confession.
5:00 PM: Mass (attendance required; fulfills Sunday obligation)
6:00 – 6:30 PM: S’mores & Scriptures – a special post-Mass gathering for families

We ask that parents and guardians join us for the S’mores & Scriptures portion following Mass. It’s a wonderful time to reflect together and build community.

Snacks will be provided during the retreat and the S’mores & Scriptures event. If your child has any food sensitivities or health concerns, you are welcome to send additional snacks or water.

Please have your child dress comfortably. We are attending 5:pm Mass Jeans, t-shirt, sneakers, & a light jacket is perfect!

All materials will be provided. Just bring your good vibes and open hearts!

We hope this day will be fun, educational, and inspiring—helping our families grow in faith while deepening your connection with the St. Mary of the Purification community.

RSVP by Thursday, October 30, 2025

Please confirm attendance through the Talking Points App or by contacting:

📧 Ms. Ronnie Gabriel: gabrielgirlz@gmail.com

📧 Ms. Valerie Harrison (DRE): vharrison81@hotmail.com

✝️ Introducing My Mass Passport!

We’re excited to share a new initiative this year the My Mass Passport!

As part of our CCE program, attending the 8:30 a.m. Mass is an essential part of your child’s faith formation. Mass is where our children learn the prayers, responses, and rhythms of Catholic worship. It’s also where they encounter Jesus in Word and Sacrament, not just in the classroom.

🕊️ How It Works

Each child will receive a My Mass Passport journal.
After 8:30 a.m. Mass each Sunday, children will bring their passport to be stamped or signed.
This simple ritual helps make Mass attendance fun, personal, and easy to track.
At the end of the CCE year (April 19, 2026), completed passports will be recognized with certificates and special awards.

💡 Why the Change?

In previous years, parents were asked to sign children in before Mass. We listened to your feedback and want to make the process easier while keeping the focus on your child’s active participation in the Mass itself.

🙏 Your Role

Help your child remember their passport each week.
Encourage them to take pride in presenting it after Mass.
Support them in understanding that Mass is the most important classroom we have.

Thank you for partnering with us to nurture the faith of our children and make Sunday worship a joyful part of their spiritual growth.

The acronym ACTS helps us remember the four different types of prayer intentions

Let's take a closer look at the meaning of each prayer and then discuss the four types of prayer by intentions (ACTS)

A - Adoration What it is: Expressing praise and worship to God for who He is and His attributes, like His love, power, and majesty.

C - Confession / Contrition What it is: Acknowledging your sins and mistakes to God, seeking His forgiveness, and potentially including forgiving others.

T - Thanksgiving What it is: Expressing gratitude to God for the specific blessings and good things He brings into your life.

S - Supplication / Petition What it is: Making requests or petitions to God for your own needs and the needs of others.

Adoration Prayer

Confession or Contrition Prayer

Thanksgiving Prayer Thanking God for Blessings & Grace

Supplication Prayer

Supplication and Petition Prayer

Adoration & Exaltation Prayers

Combination of prayers: Thanksgiving & Petition

🌳 Family Trees 🌳

Jesus was a real person that was born, lived and died right here on planet earth. His life story is has been chronicled in the Holy Bible which is divided into two major parts: Old Testament & New Testament.

Old Testament details the world before Jesus was born. It details the history of His cultural ancestors and provides instructions of how to live a good and blessed life during that time. We still use this framework to help order our lives today.

New Testament details the life of Jesus, His teachings, and Sacrifice. We learn about the struggles of the early Christian church as it builds on the Biblical culture foundation and expands the message of love and salvation inviting all people to join the church lead by His apostles. We are members of that same Catholic (Universal) Church family today.

Jesus Family Tree

Consider making your own Family Tree! You are a part of Jesus ' family through Grace and you become a part of our church family through the Sacrament of Baptism!

On Sunday, September 14, 2025, we also explored the Circle of Grace lesson, a program taught across all classes in the Archdiocese.

👼🏽Circle of Grace 🔵

Together, we learned about respecting the personal space God gives each of us. We encourage the to children identify their own “circle” and reminded each of them that they have the right to say, “I feel uncomfortable” or “please step back.” Your child has a community of caring adult, including their OCIC teacher, who has vowed to always protect their sacred circle of grace.

Parent Participation & Faith Respect

Parents are always welcome to visit or join our OCIC retreats and Sunday School classes; whether for a single Sunday or every week! There will be occasional opportunities to help with activities, such as distributing treats or assisting during lively lessons, but you are invited to sit in anytime.

We understand that Faith is a journey. As CCE & OCIC teachers, we are entrusted with teaching Church doctrine using age-appropriate language, encouraging questions, and providing thoughtful answers about the Catholic Faith. We also honor the diverse faith traditions in your family. Please feel free to share these with me so we can help your child understand and integrate their learning respectfully, without placing them in opposition to their family’s beliefs.

Mass & Class Commitments

Weekly Mass

All families are expected to attend the 8:30 a.m. Sunday Youth Mass. These early services include opportunities for our parish children to participate as readers, ushers, altar servers, choir members, and as honored members of Jr. Knights or Jr. Daughters. However, our OCIC Sacrament candidates may only begin these roles after receiving the Sacraments during the Easter Vigil.

Our OCIC candidates & their families may be selected to bring up the gifts during Mass. Attending Mass regularly helps reinforce prayers and responses, allowing your child to learn the flow of the liturgy.

A few of the things we do as a Sunday school class include Christmas Eve performance, Up close Sanctuary Field lessons, and Stations of the Cross with Mardi Gras bead rewards for answering questions!

Weekly OCIC Students + Parish Catholic School Students = One Faith!

All Reconciliation & First Communion Sacrament candidates must attend the mandatory sacrament retreats.

🤔 Weekly Classes or Catholic School:

St Mary's Parish children who also attend the parish school and are taught by Sister Josephine or a different Catholic school that has been communicated to the Mrs. Valier Harrison, DRE. are typically excused from weekly Sunday school classes
Weekly OCIC and CCE Sunday School classes does include interesting and extra-curricular activates that your child may want to participate in such as field lessons in the sanctuary, preparation for seasonal performances, and focused preparation for:
- - First Reconciliation during the Parish Day of Penance in the 2026 Lenten season
  - Easter Vigil celebration in April 3, 2026

Sr. Josephine Jemiseye SSMA

St. Mary of the Purification Catholic School Religion Coordinator & Teacher PK - 5th

Important Sacrament Information

Proof of Baptism

All candidates must provide a copy of their Baptism certificate. If you need assistance obtaining this, please contact our DRE, Ms. Valerie Harrison, for guidance. If you have not been Baptized this sacrament will be fulfilled during the Easter Vigil.

First Reconciliation Requirement

Father Jaison requires that each candidate receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation before First Communion. If your child cannot complete the Sacrament with the class during the Parish Day of Penance, please coordinate with Ms. Valerie Harrison for guidance.

Scheduling & Flexibility

Our projected dates and times for classes, retreats, and Sacrament celebrations are currently under review with Father Jaison. Once approved, dates may still change due to unforeseen circumstances such as weddings, funeral services, or school functions. We coordinate with all ministries as best we can, and we thank you for your patience and flexibility if adjustments are necessary.

Projected Key Dates Update will be highlighted RED

Reconciliation Retreat: November 8, 2025

Parish Day of Penance (First Reconciliation): March 19, 2026

Eucharist Retreat: March 2026 (date TBD)

Easter Vigil Rehearsal: March 2026 (date TBD)

Easter Vigil (Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation): April 4, 2026

These Are Special Sundays

Looking forward to seeing your at Mass, but not in class.

October 26, 2025 – St. Mary’s Bazaar/Fall Festival
November 30, 2025 – Thanksgiving (First Sunday Advent)
December 28, 2025 – Feast of the Holy Family
January 25, 2026 – Catholic Schools Week
March 29, 2026 – Palm Sunday
April 5, 2026 – Easter Sunday
April 19, 2026 – Final CCE Class & Family Day

Sign of the Cross

Your child is responsible for learning the "Sign of the Cross" as part of their OCIC Sacrament Class curriculum.

This is fundamental to your child's life as a Catholics. This is a verbal and physical profession of faith in God as He has revealed Himself. It serves as an abbreviated form of the Apostles Creed.

As we declare our faith in the Gather, Son, and Holy Spirit we also "make the sign of the cross" by touching our forehead, chest, and shoulders. Please make sure you practice this most fundamental declaration of faith with your child.

Make sure you are touching your forehead, chest, LEFT shoulder and then RIGHT shoulder and saying AMEN!

Making the sign of the cross is typically done with the right hand because Jesus sits at the right hand of God. However, the left hand is okay too!

Nightly prayer is a wonderful way to end your day showing gratitude to God!

The Lord's Prayer

(Our Father Prayer)

Your child is responsible for learning the standard "Lord's Prayer" (Our Father prayer) as part of their OCIC Sacrament Class curriculum.

This prayer is fundamental to your child's life as a Christian. As Catholics we believe this prayer was given to us by Jesus during his Sermon on the Mount. This payer can be found in the New Testament the Gospel according to Luke chapter 11 verses 2 - 4, and the longer version in the Gospel according to Matthew, chapter 6 verses 9 - 13.

We find making this prayer a part of our night time routine prior to getting into bed to be very effective. It is a lovely way to help your child end his/her evening in thanksgiving for the blessing of the day.

"Glory Be" Prayer is called The Lesser Doxology

Your child is responsible for learning the standard "Glory Be" prayer as part of their OCIC Sacrament Class curriculum.

This prayer is fundamental to your child's life as a Christian. As Catholics we believe this prayer is part of our religious tradition that comes from the Jewish synagogues. St. Paul would often use doxologies similar to the Glory Be in his letters. For Example, he referred to "the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be honor forever and ever".

This short prayer is typically used as a way of ending longer petition prayers. So when your child has prayed from their heart asking for help, support, or a matter of concern they can wrap up the prayer with a "Glory Be", prior to making the sign of the cross and ending the prayer completely.

The Hail Mary Prayer

Your child is responsible for learning the standard "Hail Mary" prayer as part of their OCIC Sacrament Class curriculum.

This prayer is fundamental to your child's life as a Catholic. We believe this prayer serves as a reminder of the special sacrifice Mary gave willingly as a faithful servant of God.

The words of the prayer are from the Gospel according to Luke in chapter 1 verses 1 - 28 the angel Gabriel was sent to Mary by God, the Father. Angel Gabriel greets her, "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you".

Additionally when Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth according to the Gospel of Luke, chapter 1 verses 41 - 42, Elizabeth exclaimed, "Of all women you are the most blessed, and blessed is the fruit of your womb".

Creating a routine during morning prayers asking Mary to pray for us during the day can help reinforce this fundamental prayer of our faith.

May we will always say "YES to GOD" as Mary did when she said yes to becoming the mother of Jesus.

To reinforce this prayer you can have your child recite it whenever they would require correction or redirecting for actions deserving of an apology. For example:

Your child's actions result in another child crying. In addition to apologizing with an "I'm sorry" you can use this opportunity to recite the words of the Act of Contrition.

This prayer helps your child hold themselves accountable for their actions against others.

The Act of Contrition

Your child is responsible for learning the standard "Act of Contrition" prayer as part of their OCIC Sacrament Class curriculum.

This prayer is fundamental to your child's life as a Catholic. Our faith teaches us it is essential to reaffirm the truth, express our sincere sorrow for past sins, and declare our earnest hope that God's grace will triumph within us and we will avoid sin in the future.

Your child will make their First Reconciliation during the Lenten Season. Please practice this prayer with them daily so they are prepared when seeking absolution of sin.

Why do you pray the Rosary?

The daily news is alarming, and sometimes it feels there is no end in sight, but as Christians we believe in the promise of the Psalm chapter 27 verse 1:

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"

We will get through this as a country, community, and church. For children and adults this can be very difficult and scary, but as Catholics we know we can find comfort in traditional prayers.

We challenge each child to pray one decade of the rosary each night for ten days, and would appreciate your help in reaching this goal.

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