liturgical ministries
Rich liturgical celebrations are possible through the prayerful preparation and dedication of many volunteers. From the decor of the worship space, to the members of the choirs, there are hundreds of details that require the work of many hands. If you are interested in learning more about what goes into liturgy, please contact the Parish Office so we can direct you to the right coordinator, (204) 832-1993.
Individuals responsible for the various liturgical ministries, together with any interested people, meet several times a year to assist the parish priest in planning and preparing for the various liturgical celebrations and seasons throughout the church year. Emphasis is put on harmoniously bringing all concerned persons together, as one symphonic group, whose primary goal is to enable the congregation to offer fitting worship to God.
Programs Offered
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish offers Catechesis of the Good Shepherd – a Montessori approach to learning.
Classes are normally held during the school year. Class times are being determined.
Registration
To register contact Maureen Foster-Fernandes (Faith Formation Co-ordinator) telephone: 204-832-4336; e-mail: religioused[at]olphwinnipeg[dot]ca.
Overview – Catechesis of the Good Shepherd
The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, (CGS) is a program of Christian formation for children ages 3 through 12. It begins with the understanding that there is a deep bond between God and each child.
Based on the teaching methods of Maria Montessori and drawing on the most essential elements of Scripture and Liturgy, the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd helps children to name, explore and deepen this relationship as the foundation for their lives.
The vision for this faith experience began in Rome in 1954 with Dr. Sofia Cavalletti, a Hebrew Scripture Scholar and her co- worker, Gianna Gobbi, a Montessori educator. It has spread internationally.
In the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, the classroom called the atrium, is a spiritual environment- a place of worship rather than a traditional classroom. It is a place of work that becomes prayer and conversation with God. It is a prepared environment where children grow in the knowledge of Jesus and His love. The work in the atrium prepares them for the involvement in the larger worshipping community.
The hands-on materials in the atrium encourage the children to explore and deepen their experiences at their own pace. The children are free to work with materials that represent the essence of the Christian message. The adult’s role is to prepare the environment; present works that call forth the child’s response; then step back, allowing God and the child to work together.
Visit the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Association of Canada (CGSAC) website for more information on the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and detailed description on what the children learn in the Atrium.
Reach out to us to find out more about this method of catechesis, or tour the room called the “Atrium” where children come to work.
Confirmation is celebrated in grade 8. There is a special class schedule for the grade 8 confirmation class.
Confirmation is a vital step in the journey of young Catholics maturing in their faith. Confirmed in the Spirit, the program used is a comprehensive and flexible Confirmation preparation program that speaks with relevance to the hearts and lives of young people. Confirmed in the Spirit prepares young people for Confirmation and the next phase of their lives as Catholics.
Note: Children should have at least one year of catechism prior to registering for the celebration of sacraments, especially if they have had little catechism at home and participation in mass and parish life has been minimal.
Questions contact Manuela Fontes (Confirmation Co-ordinator) telephone: 204-832-4336; e-mail: catechism[at]olphwinnipeg[dot]ca.
Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA)
Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA)The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process through which interested adults and older children are gradually introduced to the Catholic faith and way of life. our Lady of Perpetual Help has organized a program for adults, and makes special provision for older children.
RCIA systematically takes an individual through the major teachings and practices of the Church. It is a journey based on the principle that the process of conversion proceeds gradually, in stages. Progress from one stage to the next is marked by a liturgical celebration in the midst of the parish community. The experience and needs of those in each category described above differ, and so the length of time may vary for each person.
Candidates can be from various walks of life:
- Unbaptized: persons who have never been baptized and who need a process to help them grow in awareness to God’s call to conversion as well as ways to respond to that call. They are considered catechumens.
- Baptized in Another Christian Church: Those who were baptized into another Christian denomination and wish to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church. They are considered candidates. For baptized Christians interested in possibly joining the Catholic Church, the process will vary depending upon the depth on one’s religious and spiritual readiness.
- Baptized but uncatechized Catholic Adults: persons who were baptized as infants and not given any religious instruction in the Catholic faith. These adults will be prepared to celebrate the sacraments of penance, confirmation and Eucharist. They are also considered candidates.
If this is something that interests you, contact the Parish Office at (204) 832-1993 or request a meeting with the pastor to learn what is involved.
