Eucharist Parent Material

THE PENI TENT IAL ACT Here we acknowledge our sinfulness and so proclaim our belief in a God who is forgiving. THE GLORIA This is a song of praise based on the hymn of the angels in Luke’s Christmas story. THE COLLECT At the beginning of this prayer, the priest invites us to pray: ‘Let us pray’. This is a time for us to pray quietly and to further remind ourselves that we are in God’s presence. It is also an opportunity to name our own special intentions. At the end of the prayer, prayed aloud by the celebrant, we offer our own affirmation (agreement) with the response: ‘Amen’. S H A R E W I T H Y O U R C H I L D READ with them the page on the Introductory Rites in their resource booklet: THE INTRODUCTORY RITES The priest begins with the special prayer of praise to God – the Sign of the Cross. Frequently read the text of the Penitential Act with your child. GLORIA The Gloria is often sung (except during Lent and Advent). READ the text of the Gloria with your child. It would make a good subject for a collage or poster of beautiful pictures. Some of the phrases could be added over the top of the pictures. This is a good family activity. COLLECT HELP your child become aware of this particular time by reminding them that it is a time for quiet prayer. You could help them name their own special intentions by discussing them prior to coming to Mass. 9