Sacramental Preparation in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)
Children working in Sacramental preparation through CGS must have at least 1 year prior experience in the Level 2 atrium. Ideally the child would also have at least one year of experience in Level 1, as well. Children grow into desire and readiness for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion through lessons and work with various materials in Levels 1 & 2.
During the first sacraments year (typically second grade, or the second year of Level 2) there are additional preparations. Towards the beginning of the school year, children who are eligible to receive first communion are invited to prayerfully consider entering into preparation to receive first communion and first reconciliation. Our goal is to help the child choose from their own desire and love for Jesus to accept the gifts that he offers us through the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion. Once the children have prayerfully discerned and decided to receive these sacraments they will sign their name on a letter of intent to begin their preparations and their names will be placed a special box by the prayer table so that we can keep them in prayer the entire year. Children and parents attend five weekly scriptural meditations that foster a desire for Reconciliation and link it to the celebration of the Eucharist. These meditations focus on the True Vine, the Found Coin and Found Sheep, the Forgiving Father, and the Centurion’s Servant.
Preparation for First Holy Communion culminates in a special retreat on the Friday evening and Saturday just before First Communion Mass on Sunday. After Mass, the children are welcome to return to the atrium to quietly savor their experience with Jesus before continuing their celebration with family and friends.