September 2011 Dear Parents, Christ peace is you!

Last month weve started creating activities that would enrich your childrens appreciation/understanding about the holy sacraments of the church. Las t month weve discussed the meaning and importance of the Sacrament of Penance. This month, weve discussed to them the essence of the Holy Eucharist as expressed in the Holy Mass. Our goal focuses on creating or increasing their level of awareness about the presence of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist. Weve also discussed to them the proper attitude and attire as they attend and participate in the celebration of the Holy Mass. And make them understand the importance of giving thanks as an expression of gratitude to God for all He has done for us. Because of this, we would like to ask for your help to pursue their understanding about the Sacrament of Eucharist. Here are some tips we think would help you achieve our goal. Be an example. Take your children to mass regularly, if possible, daily. Seeing you and the other parishioners receive Holy Communion will spark interest in kids about the sacrament. Explain that the bread represents Jesus' body and the wine, His blood. Emphasize that these are symbols that stand for the willing sacrifice Jesus made by dying on the cross. Their participation in Holy Communion, Holy Mass and by behaving properly, is an expression of their desire to let Jesus into their hearts. Emphasize that Jesus loves them unconditionally, and every time they celebrate Holy Communion and Holy Mass, they are reaffirming that love. Describe Jesus as their friend and someone who will always hear them and who wants to help them live in the Christian faith. Help Them. Help your children to practice how to count their blessings. Kids often do not know what to be thankful for until you give them examples. Talk about blessings before the stress of the day. Give examples, a child can be grateful for such as a favorite toy, food, memory, friend, and an activity at schooletc. Tell them that these blessings came from God and they need to thank God for all the things He gave to them. Encourage them to say a thanks giving prayer every day, in the morning or before going to bed. But more importantly, pray with them.

We hope to continue working with you in leading your child to a deeper understanding of our Catholic faith and create an appreciation about the Sacraments. We are always grateful of your support and help in our ministry. Thank you and may our loving and faithful God bless you always! In Christ through Mary, KFL Team