Hello Ninth Grade Families,
The parishes in the Diocese of Cleveland have been issued a directive with regards to rescheduling sacraments that were to take place in the spring. At this time, the Diocese is asking us to reschedule Confirmation in the fall. This is of course contingent that the Coronavirus is contained and we are given permission to gather for public events in the fall.
I know that this may not surprise you as we continue to watch many planned events get cancelled daily. However, I also know that this information may cause you and your families many emotions. Please know that the Confirmation Preparation Team and I share in those emotions with you. This time in our lives has been filled with much change, uncertainty, and unpredictability. We are here for you and are available to you if there are any questions, concerns, or feelings you would like to discuss.
I would like to provide you with some things we do know!
- Your child will make their Confirmation! I cannot say what "fall" means or give you a specific date. We just have to wait and see how things unfold in our country and community. However, your child is ready in their heart and have been fully prepared to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. That is the beauty we will all witness, as a Church, in God's timing.
- The role you play as first educators in the faith is critical! As Catechists on Confirmation Preparation Team, we have always been grateful to assist you in your role as primary educators of the faith. The opportunities you share with your children in faith formation is even more necessary since we are not able to reinforce their religious learning at monthly sessions. Hopefully, you have been able to take advantage of the catechesis tools being sent through the St. Rita eBulletin and Constant Contact emails.
- We must not loose focus of why we are faced with these abnormal circumstances. I know that rescheduling Confirmation is not anything that we planned on, but our loved ones can be in danger of contracting COVID-19 and we, as a Church, are following the guidelines of very educated people. We want to protect all of Christ's children the best that we can.
- You will receive updates as soon as we can provide them. When we are able to look at a time frame in which we can come together again, I will let you know right away. Our plan as a team is to have a last session together that may be in conjunction with 'walk through,' which would include sponsors. I just do not know when that will be scheduled. Please be patient as we are trying to navigate through this uncharted water as well. We plan to communicate with you monthly to provide any updates we know. This is a priority for us as we know that there are many pieces and parts in scheduling, especially for sponsors who may need to plan travel arrangements. Any updates will be sent to you via email and posted on Facebook as well.
- We are here for you! If you would like faith formation ideas, links, websites, or materials that we have not already offered, let me know! If you would like to reach out to just process your thoughts about this news, please do. I am not in the office, the best way to reach me is through email -
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The St. Rita Confirmation Team and Parish Staff are lifting you and your families in prayer.
