Parents speak of their hearts’ desire when it comes to  preparing their child for the sacrament of Reconciliation.  This was so evident Tuesday evening at our first parent gathering for sacramental preparation which allowed time to come to know one another, and for small  and large group sharing.

“What is your hope, your desire for your child as he, she begins preparing for the Sacrament of Reconciliation?”  Surveying the group, parents want their child to experience the Sacrament as a blessing, a sign of God’s love, rather than a punishment for wrong doing. They articulated that their child encounter an authentic experience of God’s mercy and forgiveness, and not to be afraid or ashamed.

In their own words…..

“During the preparation for Reconciliation we hope that [our son] will come to better understand the importance of being sorry and forgiving. We want him to come to know that all people make bad choices at times, or sin at times, and that we are always forgiven by God. We can be examples of God to one another by forgiving each other too. Even when friends are acting out in their worst of ways we will forgive them and love them. We want our son to know that we will always love him even in his worst of ways.” Beth

The  shared wisdom that evening and the days to follow clearly illustrate that parents, are the closest image of God to their children.   The beauty of this gathering, parents shared from the heart.   What is your desire for your child?