Our October GIFT sessions are always ambitious. With only one session per month, I can't afford to commit the entire time just to introducing our theme. So in 90 minutes, I need to welcome newcomers, establish the theme, and do a lesson on the monthly topic. We did accomplish those things, I think, but I'd like to take this opportunity to go just a little deeper with each of those goals.
Welcoming Newcomers
If you are a parent new to the GIFT program, welcome! I hope you enjoyed our first session. Taking the children out to prepare something for the parents is not a common thing for me to do, and doing it on the first day was a little risky. But the children did a great job, and hopefully it helped them to feel more comfortable with me. I also hope that it gave you a chance to talk with some other GIFT parents. One of my goals for this year is to establish a sense of community and connection within our program; I'd like to see both kids and parents make a few new "church friends!"
Our Theme
Our "Catch the Spirit" theme allows many opportunities for parents to bring the faith conversation into everyday life. So many of us have children who play sports, watch sports, or both. Even if your child isn't a fan, they have played sports in school gym class and understand the concept of a team. Take note of teachable moments that offer a chance to talk about team work, attitude, sharing, fairness, and being a good sport (even if someone else isn't). Talk about your family as a team, as well. A few years ago when the movie "High School Musical" was popular, we started our GIFT year with the song, "We're All In This Together" - the perfect theme song for families!
Creation and the Bible
If you were surprised to learn that there's more than one Creation story in Genesis, or if the concept of Biblical Myth was news to you, it may be time to start reading the Bible (gasp!). As Catholics, many of us grew up without much emphasis on scripture outside of Mass, and I find that a lot of adults who attend Mass regularly are still unfamiliar with many of our rich biblical stories and characters. But before you dig up the Bible you received for your Confirmation in 1980-something, let me suggest something a little more recent. There are all sorts of great study Bibles out there. Getting a specifically Catholic one is a great idea, because the notes and study guides will help you understand our Church doctrine and Tradition. Personally, I like the Catholic Youth Bible from St. Mary's Press. Although it's meant for teens, I find it informative and easy to read. SMP also publishes the "Break Through" Bible that we use at GIFT. This is great for children, but I find it a little too watered down for my own use. If you'd like to start getting into scripture, I suggest a trip to Holy Cross bookstore in Lakeville. It's a Catholic store, and they can help you find the Bible that's right for you.
Not there yet? If you're like many parents who have not been super active in the Church and are coming back primarily because of your children, start with Mass. I know it's not always easy to get there. I freely admit my family misses a weekend here and there. But the more you can come, the more you will learn and grow in your own faith, which will definitely make a difference in your child's experience of faith. My kids have never thanked me for taking them to Mass. They complain about being bored. But some day, I know they will be feeling lost, and hopefully they will find themselves in a church, and it will feel familiar and safe to them - it will feel like home.
About Our "Safety Play"
Below are the safety topics we will be covering at our GIFT Sessions. When presenting the topics, I will keep my comments as general as possible while still getting to the main point. I hope you will take some time to discuss the topics further with your child after each session.
Nov: "Coaches & Assistants" - we will talk about the adults in our life who are in charge, following rules, asking first, and what to do if you have a problem with an adult who is in charge. Parents will receive booklets written for children about abuse. You will be able to read the pamphlet and share it with your child at home as you deem appropriate.
Jan: "Protective Gear" - we'll talk about our bodies as gifts from God, that some parts of our bodies are private, and what to do if someone shows disrespect for our bodies.
Feb: "Practice Makes Perfect" - we'll practice talking with our parents about difficult things.
March: "Can a Team Have Secrets?" - we'll learn the difference between good secrets and harmful secrets.
If you have any questions about the GIFT program, please feel free to contact me at desire.sobeich@risensavior.org.
