Faith formation for toddlers
Local
A new faith formation program for three to five year olds, called Little Lambs, has been established by the Mount Gambier parish.
The launch of the program follows the awarding of a $300 grant to the parish by the Adelaide Archdiocese’s Catholic Council for Young Families (CCYF) to assist with set up costs and resources.
Additional items were donated by generous parishioners and have helped create a welcoming environment for the children.
The group created a sacred space in the St Joseph room which was officially blessed by Deacon Olek Stirrat.
Little Lambs coordinators Julie Halman, Debbie Brogan and Helen Mugavin said the children have “eagerly embraced” all the learning experiences provided.
Each session begins and ends with prayer and the children actively participate in all topics of discussion.
“The aim is to enable children to discover and explore the beautiful stories found in the Scriptures, the sacraments and the traditions of the Catholic faith,” Julie said.
“We have provided a place where the children can actively engage in a variety of activities that support learning about our loving Father, our Lord Jesus, our Blessed Mother Mary and all the saints.
“Their knowledge and under-standings are supported by creative experiences that include individual and group experiences, visual objects, toys, puzzles and games.
“We’re also lucky enough to have Debbie Brogan share her musical talents with us as she accompanies the children on guitar and adds music to our prayers.”
Helen said the group had learnt about and celebrated several feast days, including St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, St Vincent de Paul, St Teresa of Calcutta and St John Paul II.
One of the highlights of the term was having Deacon Olek join the group and read ‘Jesus in the Tabernacle’ before accompanying the children to St Paul’s Church to explain the Adoration of the Eucharist.
The sessions are held every Thursday from 9.30-10.45am during school terms with plans for school holiday programs next year.
If you would like to know more about the program, contact the parish office on 8725 6566 or mgp.littlelambs1@gmail.com.
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