Educational Resource
Catechetical Sunday Resource: A Mother's Reflection on Liturgy: Word, Sign, Symbol, Ritual (2009)
Catechetical Sunday, September 20, 2009 Resource
A Mother’s Reflection on Liturgy: Word, Sign, Symbol, Ritual by Michele Harris, director of religious education at St. Francis de Sales Parish, Salisbury, Maryland
"As a parent and catechist I am always seeking ways to increase people’s understanding of our faith in a world that embraces values that often conflict with the message of Jesus Christ. The bishops of the United States emphasize the importance of this aspect of catechetical ministry: “The Church’s catechetical mission aims to help the faithful of all ages to grow in both human and Christian maturity, enriching the whole of life with the leaven of the Gospel” (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops [USCCB], Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us [Washington, DC: USCCB, 1999], no. 64). That morning on the beach, my son taught me about the profound simplicity of ritual, word, symbol, and sign used in our sacramental celebrations and their connection to our everyday life."