Connections

Family of God: A Resource for Families

The Family of God (above), The Spirit Alive and The Spirit Alive Mentor Handbook (below) may be purchased online through the NFCYM (click on the cover image or title to open the NFCYM online store product page).

At a recent meeting, a Girl Scout/Camp Fire leader commented on the tremendous versatility of the revised Family of God program. She said it had proven to be a hit with a first communion group. That comment really sparked my interest. I came back to the office and started reviewing the book with new eyes. First, one cannot help being totally fascinated by the bilingual text and multicultural artwork. These attributes alone encourage family discussion. Even small children will point to the many words, which are similar in both languages, such as "especial" and "special" or "familia" and "family.” Such discussions open our families to acceptance and love of our neighbors of other ethnic backgrounds. However, what really impressed me was the way in which the themes of God's love, belonging, giftedness, helping/serving, prayer, and Scripture would enhance a child's experience of preparing for his or her first communion. Then, I began to think, too, that doing the Family of God activities in third grade would be a wonderful follow-up to whatever family-centered materials are made available for second graders and their families during the sacramental preparation period. I hope everyone will spread the word about the availability of this resource to all families with boys and girls in second or third grade. The children need not be involved in Girl Scouts or Camp Fire in order to work on this program and achieve the accompanying recognition. Everyone is encouraged to be part of the Family of God!

The Spirit Alive: Supplement for Confirmation Preparation

The newly revised The Spirit Alive religious recognition program made its debut in December 2004 at the National Conference on Catholic Youth Ministry. It is for youth ages 15 and older and in grades 9–12. While it is written for the Catholic members of Girl Scouts and Camp Fire, it can be used as a tool for learning in Catholic youth ministry or religious education programs, whether as a whole or in part. More specifically, it is a valuable supplement for preparing youth for the sacrament of confirmation.

The Spirit Alive speaks to the presence and influence of the Holy Spirit in Scripture, the Catholic Church, in prayer, and the adolescent’s life. It uses journaling, a variety of mediums according to one’s gifts, a wide range of options, and a serious service project to further spiritual development.