Confirmation Class

[maryjk]

Well, I started my first year of confirmation classes today and I…

I hated it…I want to go to this to learn and explore theology…Learn about The Lord and the history of the Catholic Church…

What did we do instead?We learned how to look up verses in the Bible…We also HAD to do a “skit” or “commerical” of selling the Bible to someone…

It was the first class. Generally first classes are about meeting and greeting, getting to know each other, and handing out books. They aren’t the time to get into deep theological discussions.

Honestly? Did you think you would “explore theology” on day one?

This seems to be…Not much help for my faith, it goes by so slow and teaches me nothing new…

Again, what did you expect to learn “new” on day one?

Two years of this?

Do I have another option?

Don’t get me wrong, I love my Church and my Faith I just don’t see the point in reviewing things we should have learned in preparation for Holy Communion.

Just wait until you are an adult and attend a “team building” meeting. You will be putting together a skit, making a commercial or doing some other crazy thing that won’t teach you anything. It happens.

Did the teacher hand out a syllabus? Give you a book? Tell you what to expect for the rest of the year? After you find out all of that, then you can think about what you might or might not learn in class.

 

[teachccd]

As a Confirmation facilitator I can say that I would be concerned if a student rated the whole two years by our first meeting. Usually the first session of the first year is an ice breaker and not meant for heavy theology or even a “lesson” at all. Catechists in general will use a variety of teaching methods and not all are going to inspire all young people at the same time. Within the first year my group will review many theological teachings but done within the relevancy of the students lives. It is most important that my students see how Jesus interacts in their lives before we can drive the nuts and bolts home.

My advice would be to give this class a chance and be fair to your facilitator/catechist. We all volunteer our time because we care about our young people and want to see them advance in their faith. I’ve yet to meet a catechist that shows up every week to see how they can bore their students to death. We take time out of our lives to do our best and what may not seem attractive to you is still your facilitator’s fervency to pass on the faith.

Pray for your facilitator and the rest of your group. You can either rebel and think that it is all stupid or you can persevere and be an asset for everyone. It’s all about Jesus and perhaps you being there can bring Jesus to someone who might see your (name removed by moderator)ut as inspiration. If after a few classes you still feel the need to change then speak to your coordinator or pastor and see if you can go to another group. Don’t give up and definitely do not despair. You will do great! God bless you in your discernment.