In the Fall 2009 issue of the Forum Newsletter, children’s initiation expert, Fr. Tim Piaseki, says that the task of RCIA teams is to help children become friends with Jesus.

How do people become friends? They spend time together. They have conversations with each other. They do things together. Little by little they come to know each other well. They come to enjoy being in each other’s company. They learn each other’s likes and dislikes. When they are apart, they miss one another. The question becomes: How can initiation ministers help children and Jesus Christ to become the best of friends?

He then discusses issues that concern the children and their families in the initiation process.

Click here to download the newsletter. Tim’s article appears in both English and Spanish.

One terrific suggestion he makes is that an “abuela” (grandmother)-type person could mentor the family. His point is that people who are embarrassed to ask their questions of a priest or other church minister might feel more comfortable speaking with someone who is less “official.”

Do you use “abuela-sponsors” in your parish? How do you help children and families feel comfortable in the initiation process? Click on comments and share your stories.

• Who sponsors child catechumens?
• The key to adapting the RCIA for children
• 5 principles for adapting the RCIA for children

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