Parents who are planning to prepare a child for First Communion this year may want to check out Fed by the Lord: At-Home Scriptural Formation to Prepare Children for First Communion by Leonard J. DeLorenzo. Dr. DeLorenzo teaches theology at the University of Notre Dame and developed this book after preparing his own children for this important sacrament.
Fed by the Lord is a scripturally-based program that is designed to be used interdependently of or in conjunction with a parish sacramental preparation program. Unlike most First Communion materials, this one is not particularly child-friendly in that it has no colorful illustrations. This is a text-based book. The intent is that the parent will read it and then use it to foster conversation with the child, leading them in some additional activities to interact with the material.
It is also unique in that it provides quality theological instruction for parents, so if you are unsure about the theological and scriptural understanding of the Eucharist and want to provide your child a solid foundation in those areas, this book is for you!
Dr. DeLorenzo uses twelve Bible passages (six from the Old Testament and six from the New Testament) to trace how God has fed His people throughout salvation history. These twelve passages become the basis for twelve lessons designed to be introduced approximately once a week (life happens – if you skip a week, it is okay).
Parents and children who use Fed by the Lord as part of their sacramental prep will have a quality understanding of the meaning of the Eucharist and its importance for our spiritual lives. If not done in conjunction with a parish program, I would suggest using a book that discusses the various parts in the Mass as a supplement. There will also need to be supplemental preparation for the Sacrament of Reconciliation which often is received for the first time during preparation for First Communion.
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