Before sharing some recent pictures of the children at work, I want to share an experience I had this past week that spoke volumes to me about the families at our school and the formation they give their children, supported through the Atrium and the academic learning environments at The Way of the Shepherd. Several years ago a decision was made to attempt to offer the Sacrament of Reconciliation to our school children at least once during Advent and once during Lent. This decision came after a good deal of conversation and discernment because all involved felt that this Sacrament was best received surrounded by family at one's local parish. However, knowing that this opportunity might provide access to the Sacrament of Reconciliation for a few children who might not otherwise be able to receive it, the decision was made. Last Thursday was our scheduled Lenten Reconciliation opportunity. During our Atrium sessions I mentioned that Father was going to come early for Mass so that anyone who would not have the opportunity to go with their family between now and Easter could receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Several times I emphasized that if they could go with their families, that would really be the best choice. Then, on Wednesday afternoon, I took time to approach each child in 2nd - 6th grade to ask if they would like their name to be put on the "list" of children desiring to go to Confession the following day. EVERY CHILD who could receive the sacrament, excepting five children who were going to Confession during their Faith Formation classes that very evening and a few I encouraged to check with their families, asked to have their names put on the list. I even had several children who were not Catholic ask if they could go in and speak with Father when he came, althrough they knew they could not receive the full Sacrament. The following day, several children, after speaking with their parents and discovering they would be able to go to Reconciliation as a family in the near future, asked to take their names off the list. Even so, we started Mass more than fifteen minutes late because of all of the children desiring to live more fully in the Light of Christ. How often do you try to discourage children from going to Confession because you have too many desiring this beautiful Sacrament?! Thank you, families, for all you do to share the joy of this Sacrament with your children. How beautiful to experience their desire for and understanding of this incomprehensible gift of mercy, forgiveness, and love from our Good Shepherd who lifts us up and carries us home, rejoicing!
 The Good Shepherd.  La Fettuccina - drawing pictures of all that God created. |  Research on the Apostles.  The Altar Collage - note the model altar that was set and labeled by this pair before beginning their collage work. |
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