Resources for Parents
Parents as the First Educators in the Faith
Parents are the primary educators of their children, especially when it comes to nurturing a lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ. Within the home, which the Church beautifully calls the “Domestic Church,” children first experience the love of God, the power of prayer, and the beauty of the Catholic faith. The Roman Catholic Diocese of Peterborough walks alongside you in this sacred mission, offering encouragement, support, and resources to help your family grow together in holiness.
The Importance of Your Role
Your influence as a parent shapes your child’s spiritual foundation in conjunction with parish programs and Catholic school curricula. By living out your faith daily, you provide a living witness to the Gospel.
- The Domestic Church: Your home is the first school of Christian life and a school of human enrichment.
- A Sacred Covenant: During the Sacrament of Baptism, parents accept the responsibility of training their children in the practice of the faith.
- Daily Witness: Children learn to love God by watching how their parents pray, forgive, serve others, and prioritize the Sunday Mass.
Encouragement for the Journey
You do not need to be a theologian to teach your children about God. Faith formation is woven into the ordinary, beautiful moments of everyday family life.
- Pray Together: Start small by saying grace before meals, offering morning offering prayers, or praying together at bedtime.
- Talk Openly: Encourage your children to ask questions about God, the Bible, and the world, and explore the answers together.
- Celebrate liturgical seasons: Mark Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter with family traditions like lighting an Advent wreath or practicing Lenten acts of charity.
- Attend Mass Weekly: Gathering as a family for Sunday Eucharist anchors your week in the grace of the sacraments.
Resources for Your Family
To support you in your vital role, the Diocese of Peterborough has curated a selection of trusted resources designed to bring faith alive in your home.
Digital Learning & Media
- FORMED.org (The Catholic Faith on Demand): Often called the “Catholic Netflix,” featuring inspiring movies, children’s programs, audiobooks, and family studies. Check with your local parish for free access codes.
Prayer & Scripture
- The Catholic Children’s Bible: A wonderful tool to introduce your children to reading Sacred Scripture.
- Family Rosary Resources: Simple guides and audio aids to help your family learn to pray the Rosary together.
Parent Formation & Support
- Catechism of the Catholic Church: Refer to sections 2221–2231 for the Church’s beautiful teachings on the duties of parents.
- Parish Family Ministries: Connect with your local parish priest or youth programs in the parish to find family groups, sacramental preparation programs, and community events near you.
RESOURCES FOR PARENTS
Health and Physical Education Curriculum
Fully Alive Family Life Education Resources
Overview of Family Life Education
Overview of Family Life Education in Catholic Secondary Schools