The joy of that first encounter

Editorial Staff

My granddaughter joyfully told me the date of her First Communion. It’s just over a month away and I - who have always attended the parish to help with practical activities, but I don’t feel prepared at all as a catechist - have tried to tell her something so that she can enjoy the celebration. However, I realize that I can’t find the words, and I also sense so much confusion and superficiality on the part of her parents. Yet, I know that it’s a very important moment for the faith life of a child. What could I tell her?

C.T.

Dear Grandmother, it’s not about saying many things or doing a long catechesis. The important thing is to make your granddaughter feel that the moment of First Communion integrate her strongly into the life of the Christian community in which she can, from now on, participate fully in the celebration of the Eucharist. For our children, in fact, the moment of First Communion should represent the joy of a fuller participation in the life of the Church and the possibility of living with more strength and intimacy the presence of Jesus Christ in their own lives. Then try in every way to help your granddaughter to feel the beauty and joy of this moment by sharing with her the most beautiful things that you have experienced in these years in your spiritual life. Very often, a lived witness is more effective than a theoretical teaching.