Helpful Hints

Seeking Forgiveness and Resolving Grievances

We all make mistakes. When you make a mistake, take the first step toward mending the broken relationship. Use it as a teaching moment with your children that even grownups make mistakes and need to ask forgiveness.

Settle family grievances quickly and with clear apologies. Unless children experience forgiveness and peace-making in a family setting, they are unlikely to truly grasp God's forgiveness in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Reinforce the Correct Image of God

Avoid describing God as a law enforcer. Remarks such as "God won't love you if you are not good," or "God's going to punish you if you keep teasing your brother," are untrue and may instill a negative image of our creator. 

A lifelong relationship with God is built on freely chosen responses to love rather than those born of fear.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation reinforces the belief that God never stops loving us.

Talk about God!

Help your child(ren) become more aware of God in their day. Help them spot God in the good times and how God helps us through the bad times. Help them remember they can ask God for help or give Him praise when something good happens!

Let your kids see you thanking God for a good cup of coffee in the morning or for a beautiful day. Let them also see you ask God for help on the difficult mornings or rainy days.

Dream Big

In life we encourage our kids to dream big.

 This year ask yourself what your spiritual dream is for your child. 

My dream for our children is for them to really know Jesus as a friend they can talk to anytime. I dream that they will always be comforted, renewed and strengthened by the sacrament of reconciliation, and that they will learn to love the Mass and cherish God's lifegiving nourishment in Holy Communion.