| Foreword
It is now eight years since my predecessor,
Archbishop Francis Rush, issued new guidelines for the Archdiocese
of Brisbane on the celebration of the sacraments of confirmation,
eucharist and penance with children. Over these years the
pattern established by these guidelines has been found to
be pastorally sound and helpful for families.
During the last two years, an extensive consultation and
review process has been undertaken and this has suggested
some changes of emphasis. For example, it would seem to be
helpful to focus more attention on introducing older children
to the first rite of reconciliation when they are better
able to deal with concepts of sin, responsibility and forgiveness.
Also, I would like to reaffirm the role of the bishop in
the diocese as the first minister of confirmation. In initiation,
the bishop links the local Church with the universal Church
and thus, whenever it is possible and convenient, the bishops
would welcome the opportunity to participate in the celebration
of confirmation and first communion.
In general, however, I gladly take this opportunity to express my support for the way
in which children are introduced to these sacraments in the
Archdiocese of Brisbane and my gratitude to all those who
prepare them for the celebration of these rites.
I promulgate in this document a revised and simplified statement
of the official archdiocesan policy on the sacraments of
confirmation, eucharist and penance with children, and recommend
to parishes the ideas contained in the pastoral commentary
on this policy.
Yours sincerely in Christ,
† John Bathersby Archbishop of Brisbane. |
