We Welcome You is a three-part baptism preparation course to help parishes prepare families for their child’s baptism and to discover the joyful start of a lifelong journey of faith. Drawing on extensive research with families, the course helps parishes to engage families with practical tips on welcome and on helping children and families prepare well for this significant spiritual moment. We Welcome You can be used with small groups or with individual families, but there are also options for using the material in a single session and even at a home visit. Containing all the resources necessary, it covers every aspect of this vital ministry and aims to enrich pastoral practice and, importantly, the experience of families. Session 1 helps families to reflect on why they want their child baptized, the importance of godparents, and the deeper meaning of baptism. Session 2 looks at the baptism service itself and the promises made at it, and explores the key symbols and their significance. Session 3 encourages families to continue on their spiritual journey, with ideas for praying with their child, reading Bible stories together and becoming part of a local church community. Informal and participative, the course offers a wide range of approaches including icebreaker activities and discussion starters, storytelling, reflection and discussion, crafts, quizzes and games. All handouts are photocopiable.
