“Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matt. 19:14).
On Saturday, March 15, 2025, St. Joseph the Betrothed Parish in Chicago hosted a special day for children preparing for First Confession and Solemn Holy Communion. This interactive and formative event was not only an opportunity for them to deepen their knowledge of the faith, but also a real holiday - full of prayer, learning and fun. The program of the event was divided into three main parts: spiritual, intellectual and entertainment.
Thanks to the efforts of priests, catechists, and volunteers, this day became an unforgettable experience for the children, who are step by step approaching an important moment in their Christian lives.
Spiritual part: meeting with Christ
Every day dedicated to God should begin with prayer. Therefore, the central event of the holiday was the Divine Liturgy, led by the parish priest, Father Mykola Buryadnyk. The children, together with their parents and catechists, prayed for peace, for Ukraine and its defenders.
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me” (Ps. 23:4).
During the sermon, Father Mykola emphasized that every prayer has great power, especially when it is sincere and comes from a child's heart. He called on the children to remember in their prayers our soldiers, their families, and all who need God's help.
"You are still small, but your hearts are already full of great love. Thank you for this prayer — it is the most precious gift we can bring to God," the priest addressed the children.
Particularly moving was the moment when each participant could offer their own sacrifice to God — a prayer for a specific intention.
During the event, interesting and instructive catechesis sessions were held for them. Father Deacon Marko and Father Bohdan told the children about the Holy Liturgy, the importance of prayer and Christian virtues in everyday life in an accessible and exciting way. Father Mykola and Father Andriy Delisandro also catechized.
Intellectual part: faith through play
After the Liturgy, the children plunged into a world of discoveries. The organizers prepared a quest game in which participants repeated the basics of faith and Christian life in an interesting and interactive way.
The children were looking for answers to the questions:
• Why is it important to go to Confession?
• How to properly prepare for Holy Communion?
• What does it mean to be a good Christian?
The game helped children not only test their knowledge, but also taught them to be a team, solve problems together, and help each other.
The fun part: the joy of community
After the serious part, it's time to relax and have fun! Animators from the "YouthPRO" community, together with their curator, Father Igor Darmohray, have prepared dynamic games and entertainment for the children.
In this fun activity, children not only played, but also learned to enjoy community, support each other, and share goodness.
“A joyful heart is the life of a man.”—Sir 30:22.
Indeed, smiles shone on the children's faces, and their laughter echoed throughout the parish. Even the adults couldn't help but join in the fun!
Thanks to the organizers
This day would not have happened without caring hearts.
Sincere gratitude to Father Mykola Buryadnyk, Father Andriy Delisander, Father Ihor Darmohray, catechists and volunteers who made this day special, spiritually rich and interesting.
“In everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thess. 5:18).
Thank you to the parents who support their children on this important journey, and to everyone who made an effort to make this day unforgettable.
May the Lord bless you all, and may the little hearts that have come even closer to God today always remain open to His love!
See you soon!
This interactive and formative day was a wonderful opportunity for spiritual growth, learning, and unity.
We hope that such events will become a good tradition for our parish.
See you again within the walls of our church!
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matt. 18:20).
