Children Lecturing at Mass

[Joe_5859]

The “restored” order would be baptism, charismatic/confirmation, communion (on the same day)’ and then confession.

hawk

Confession comes before First Communion unless one is also being baptized (since Baptism wipes away all sin).

 

[Big_Feet]

The “restored” order would be baptism, charismatic/confirmation, communion (on the same day)’ and then confession.

hawk

My children were baptized at, or near after birth. Then in the 2nd grade (7 yrs old) they participate in their 1st sacrament of Reconciliation, and we (parents) continue to take them about once a month there after.

Then, in the 3rd grade they go through preperation for and reception of (reception occuring in the same mass setting) the sacrament of Confirmation, and their first Eucharist after Confirmation.

 

[Mrs_Sally]

I don’t understand why this would upset you greatly. Many parishes have problems getting readers. I don’t think it should be a “special privelge” but something open to all who are able. We are all called to serve. I am more concerned that the person doing the reading speak clearly, annuciate properly and evidence having prepared before hand by reading the readings and having learning to pronouce any words that they don’t know. As long as the person can properly fulfill the role–and unless cannon law prohibits–I don’t see why the age of the reader should matter. The fact that you had to wait until you were confirmed should not leave you angry that at your parish this is no longer the case. Things change.

Peace,
Mark

Excellent answer. I think the OP also needs to consider that confirmation can be at whatever age is set by the bishop and is many places is long before 8th grade or whenever he received that sacrament. Also, non-confirmed children participate in the liturgy as altar servers and choir members. The qualifications for being a reader should be the ability to read well, not whether someone is a certain age or has received a specific sacrament (other than baptism).

 

[Phemie]

There’s lots of adults who mumble through the readings, and there’s lots of kids who are wonderful, bright, articulate readers.

I say get rid of the bad readers, and don’t worry about their age.

My sentiments, exactly. What I do have a problem with is having children read just for the sake of having them involved and requiring no training or preparation beyond what mom & dad are willing to do with them, which often turns out to be not very much. Train them outside of Mass and when they are good and comfortable at it, add them to the reader roster.