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The Catechesis of the
Good Shepherd |
| For the Older Child (Ages 6-12) While the heart of the catechesis for the child under six revolves around the Parable of the Good Shepherd, the elementary age child is captured by the image of the True Vine. "I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me, bears fruit in plenty; for cut off from me you can do nothing."
The elementary children see the parts of the Mass - the Liturgy of the Word, the Preparation of the Gifts, the Eucharistic Prayer, and the Communion - as one unity. A three- to four-day retreat prior to the celebration of First Eucharist allows the children the opportunity to plan several liturgies and to participate fully. Preparation of personal missals filled with illustrations and prayers is a process which deepens their love and understanding of the Eucharist. The imagination of the older child and his or her agility with the concept of time are powerful stimuli to explore the past and the future. The first time line, a ribbon fifty meters long, focuses on the high points in the history of salvation from the creation through the redemption to the parousia. Another presentation focuses on the many gifts we receive from God - rocks, minerals, flowers, fruit, friends, family - culminating in God's gift of His own divine life, in the person of Jesus, a gift which will pervade the whole universe at the completion of history. With the older child (ages 9-12) a third presentation of the history of salvation focuses on the plan of God in history as a plan of communion, a plan which links all people together. The emphasis is on our response to this unfolding generosity of God and the responsibilities that come with receiving God's great gifts. "What is the kingdom of God and my place in it?" is a cosmic query which begins to lay the foundations for a life's commitment. |
The child at this age seeks guidelines. The moral parables
offer a model for comparing their behavior with that of the Pharisee,
the Tax Collector, or the Good Samaritan. The Found Sheep, the
Found Coin, and the Prodigal Son are examined as the children prepare
for the sacrament of reconciliation. The proclamation and
meditation stress God's Love, which is constantly forgiving.
