Catechetical Sunday in January eases problems for SS teachers in Sandakan

SANDAKAN – The Catechetical Sunday for 2017, being brought forward from September to January by the Catechetical Commission of Malaysia, has eased problems for Sunday School teachers in the parish.

Sunday School usually begins classes in January each year.

The theme for this year’s Catechetical Sunday, “Christ our Joy,” was the topic chosen for a session with the parents on 14 Jan 2017. The session provided an opportunity for teachers, parents, and children to understand each other’s role.

In the first session, Franciscan Sister Martina gave a catechesis on the role and responsibility of parents as the first catechist in passing on the faith to their children. On the other hand, the teachers are to assist them on Sundays when the children attend Sunday School classes.

Parents were encouraged to ask questions.

The questions asked focused on age, Confirmation attire, syllabus of the Malaysian Catechetical series, and others.

The age recommended for Sunday School is from 7-16, that is, until they receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.

The second session, for catechists, dealt with “The Catechist’s vocation, role, mission, spirituality and competence.”  Its objective was to develop the confidence and commitment of catechists from the three language groups.

Concluding activities such as colouring competition for children for kindergarten to level 3, bible reading presentation for levels 4-6, and biblical drama for teenage students were held on Jan 21, with prizes for winners.

That evening, the catechists from all language groups received a special blessing after Communion from Father Christopher Ireneus at the Sunset Mass. – Raymond Wong