New programme for children unable to attend Catholic schools

I Call You Friends is a new programme for children who are not able to attend a Catholic school. It is an accessible, comprehensive and inclusive programme of faith development, with excellent provision for children with special needs. It is designed for use at home or in a parish setting.

Book 1 is for children who have not yet made their First Holy Communion.
Book 2 is for children who have made their First Holy Communion.
Book 3 is for children of catechetical age (CICA - Christian initiation of children who have reached catechetical age) preparing to become Catholic - a growing number of children in England and Wales are being baptised over the age of eight.

I Call You Friends takes into account the changing pattern of society and life in the Church today. The call for such a resource came from catechists, parishes, parents and diocesan adult education advisors.

Bishop Edwin Regan the chair of the National Project writes: "As parents or carers who are called to share in the faith development of your children you know how much your child[ren] want to belong. They need to experience the security of loving, strong, and trusting relationships. In this programme, step by step, they are drawn into such a relationship with Jesus, who brings us to the Father through the gift of the Holy Spirit and into communion with all friends. This relationship will grow throughout the journey of their lives as God continues to call them. It is your privilege in these early years to help them listen and respond."

"All children are entitled to have the opportunity to know, love and serve Almighty God and know that they are called friends. At St Mary's University College, Twickenham, the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI said to the school children gathered in the sports arena:
"God wants your friendship. And once you enter into friendship with God, everything in your life begins to change. As you come to know him better, you find you want to reflect something of his infinite goodness in your own life. You are attracted to the practice of virtue."

This programme replaces Walk With Me. It has been written by experienced diocesan advisers and is part of the National Project of Living and Sharing Our Faith.

For more information see: www.mccrimmons.com/product/324/1528