A Quiet Lent:::Sacrament Preparation

I have not posted often this Lenten Season, but we are still here! This year we have the double blessing of it being Lent as well as time for my youngest child to prepare to receive the Sacrament of Penance (reconciliation, confession) and First Holy Communion.

Our days have settled in to this routine-

We read our "Jesus Tree" bible stories with breakfast. This has been a great experience and a nice compliment to the "Jesse Tree" that we do during advent. During advent we read about the promises of the coming of the Messiah, and now, during Lent, we are reading about the life of Jesus beginning with His presentation at the Temple.

Coloring page for "Finding in the Temple"

On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, we watch Holy Heroes Lenten Adventures. This has been a nice addition to our Lent. I particularily appreciate when they preview Sunday's gospel reading. I can really tell that it makes a difference in what the boys take in at mass. The reminders to "make sacrifices" have been encouraging as well. Each day also has activity sheets, the rosary (audio), and the Stations of the Cross (audio).

We have our Lent Fortunes that we pick each morning.

The boys have been blessed with several opportunities to particpate in "Works of Mercy" and I am grateful for that. Sometimes I try and make opportunities for them, but the ones that God sends their way always seem to be a perfect fit.

                                                      


Much of our time has centered on the James' preparation for the Sacrament of Penance. It is the perfect match for the season. The concept of sin and of Christ suffering for our sins is at the center of our discussions- and that we can alliviate that suffering by turning our hearts toward Him.  I know that the concepts are big for a little 7 year old, but I am always amazed at how much children are capable of understanding!

Tonight was the reconciliation service at our church. I have to admit that I was skeptical at first- I am more of a traditional "confession in a confessional please" kind of person. For the service, 5 additional priests came and administered confession face to face in different areas of the church while music played to cover any voices from carrying. This was a new experience for me, but I was very humbled and moved by the service and the priests who so patiently heard confession.

James and his cousin decided to go to their first confession
with the one priest who was behind a screen.

In James words- "because it is more like Jesus is on the other side".

Joyful! And a bit silly.

All of our attention will focus on this week, Holy Week, and the preparation for

receiving the Eucharist for the first time in June.