Three years ago Scoil Mhuire took up the invitation to pilot a new model of Confirmation Preparation in the parish of Trim. This programme is based on the practice of peer education. In our inaugural year, the leadership element was delivered to over fifty 5th year students during our Religious Education classes. Our second year working on The Lighthouse Programme saw us engage with our 5th year volunteers, through a series of working lunch meetings. When so many are prepared to personally invest time and spiritual energy into this engagement, it is then you know the Holy Spirit is truly at work amidst our students. Our exciting venture came to fruition when we visited our co-operating 6th classes, in Gaelscoil na B6inne and St. Mary’s Primary School.
These are some of our evaluation feedback comments; “The LHP was a great way to learn about our Confirmation, and understand why we were making it. It was a fun way to start off our week. It’s great when you’re split into small groups so that you can have your chance to speak”-Niamh. “l really loved the LHP. It helped me so much for my Confirmation. It made me happy and less scared for the big step, and I will treasure the memory forever”- Eimear. “l feel it was an insightful and enjoyable experience. There is something wonderfully empowering about sharing faith with a younger generation. Overall a huge success!”- Aoife. “l experienced a sense of fulfilment and happiness during my time as a LH Leader”- Mary Beth. “It was both uplifting and heart-warming to listen to the perspective of the children, and how they see themselves in the eyes of God”-Karley. “l love that I will know some sixth year girls when I start in Scoil Mhuire”-Sarah.
Our 5th years gained an incredible sense of confidence and honour in the task they undertook. They worked in pairs with small groups of about four, sharing the responsibility and joy in delivering the LHP. We are indebted to the school Chaplains, Boards of Management of Scoil Mhuire, Gaelscoil na B6inne and St. Mary’s, Principals, 6th class teachers, and the community of Scoil Mhuire for putting faith in our young people. This academic year will see us build on the firm foundations laid, as we wish every blessing on our new Lighthouse Leaders and the students they will work with in our parish. Ms. Monica Farrell.
The programme affords the chance to explore one’s own faith journey, revisit the promises made at Confirmation, and experience a renewal offaith by sharing the Gospel message.
