Will They Be Back?

My 8th graders were confirmed last weekend and then had Monday off (because of a state holiday in Illinois). This coming Monday will be the first post-Confirmation class and I’m curious to see who shows up. We’ve emphasized over and over that Confirmation is not graduation but is the beginning of a new chapter in their spiritual journey. I’m told that the return factor at the parish is pretty good but this is my first experience of the situation and I’m anxious to see how things work out. Pray that the Spirit guides them and all of our young people to continue deepening their commitment to the Lord!

Prayers and best wishes to all those involved in the Scrutinies (rites of “self-searching and repentance” in the RCIA) beginning this Sunday!

About Joe Paprocki 2742 Articles
Joe Paprocki, DMin, is National Consultant for Faith Formation at Loyola Press, where, in addition to his traveling/speaking responsibilities, he works on the development team for faith formation curriculum resources including Finding God: Our Response to God’s Gifts and God’s Gift: Reconciliation and Eucharist. Joe has more than 35 years of experience in ministry and has presented keynotes, presentations, and workshops in more than 100 dioceses in North America. Joe is a frequent presenter at national conferences including the Los Angeles Religious Education Congress, the Mid-Atlantic Congress, and the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership. He is the author of numerous books, including the best seller The Catechist’s Toolbox, A Church on the Move, Under the Influence of Jesus, and Called to Be Catholic—a bilingual, foundational supplemental program that helps young people know their faith and grow in their relationship with God. Joe is also the series editor for the Effective Catechetical Leader and blogs about his experiences in faith formation at www.catechistsjourney.com.

1 Comment

  1. Joe,
    I feel your concern. Having Confirmation later in the year is difficult to retain the level of importance for the curriculum. However, we at St. Joe’s have a series of guest speakers who discuss topics ranging from Christian Sexuality to Vocations. We even have a law enforcement professional to discuss decision making as they enter High School. (Ever so sad after what happened in Oswego) We have had over 90% retention and the kids get it! We also dovetail Catholic movies with a small party where everyone brings a snack.

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