Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Warszawa (Agenzia Fides) - The celebrations for the First Communion which characterize the month of May also in Poland, represent a good opportunity to sensitize children to the needs of their peers all over the world. "The Children of the First Communion for the Children of the Missions" is one of the most important initiatives of the Pontifical Society of the Holy Childhood (POSI), through which we intend to arouse the solidarity of all children. We cannot forget the profound evangelizing meaning of this event", underlines Fr. Maciej Będziński, National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) in Poland, in the note sent to Fides. "It is precisely in the family that the preparation, the celebration and the thanksgiving for the Eucharist received take place. This joy has an even richer perspective when you share your happiness with others", he adds. Expressions of thanks to the Polish children were sent by Sister Roberta Tremarelli, Secretary General of POSI. "Thank you for your daily prayers for children around the world. This is the first missionary activity that Pope Francis reminds us of. We must pray for them every day. I also thank you for everything you do during the meetings in your missionary groups and for your support for the projects of the Pontifical Society of Holy Childhood in the mission territories", wrote Sister Roberta. "Last year we were surprised by the pandemic and its restrictions. There were not many guests at the First Communion celebrations. However, the Lord Jesus was the same as usual. He waited for everyone in the same way, and children were able to offer their prayers for the missionaries", observes Sister Monika Juszka RMI, National Secretary of POSI in Poland. The National Secretariat has prepared a catechesis course for missionary preparation for First Communion, as well as a poster, images, liturgical aids, comments and prayers for the missionary animation of the Holy Mass. POSI received offers from First Communion children in the amount of PLN 846,643.63 (in 2019) and PLN 776,342.47 (in 2020). This shows that despite the restrictions, the pandemic has certainly not stopped First Communion missionary children. The POSI of Poland in the last financial year (2019) supported 91 projects in 14 countries on 3 continents, for an amount of PLN 2,668,902.23. The assistance focused on the pastoral care of children in the dioceses, education and the promotion of life and health. (AS/SL) (Agenzia Fides, 17/5/2021)
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