A Letter to Parents

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Dear Parents,

The Code of Canon Law, Part I, Book II spells out the rights & obligations of the Christian faithful. Here we find:

"Can. 217 - Since they are called by baptism to lead a life in keeping with the teaching of the gospel, the Christian faithful have the right to a Christian education by which they are to be instructed properly to strive for the maturity of the human person and at the same time to know and live the mystery of salvation."

Every Catholic is entitled to an education in sound doctrine & the fullness of the Faith. My job as catechist is to provide those who come to me exactly that - not my personal opinion, not the latest theory, not something compromised to make it easier to swallow - but the Faith as contained in both Sacred Tradition & Sacred Scripture, handed down from the Apostles, & jealously guarded by the Magisterium of the Church.

While I always teach the children as best I can, it may all be for naught without your help & support. Canon Law goes on to say:

"Can. 226 §2. Since they have given life to their children, parents have a most grave obligation and possess the right to educate them. Therefore, it is for Christian parents particularly to take care of the Christian education of their children according to the doctrine handed on by the Church."

That's right - a grave obligation! I firmly believe that the best way you can impart the Faith to your children is simply to live the Faith! Not just by participation at Mass every Sunday & Holy Day of Obligation, but by living a joyful & charitable Christian life always & everywhere - in the home, at the grocery store, at soccer practice. Especially in the car! A great lesson for kids is to let them assist you in performing works of mercy, that is, assisting those in need. This is how your children will come to know that the life in Christ Jesus & in the Church he founded is a true treasure worth clinging to for a lifetime.

Christ Jesus told us, "By this all men will know that you are my disciples: if you have love for one another (John 13:35)." I cannot think of a greater love we can show our children.

Yours in the Lord,

- Mr. Mark
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