CEC Open Day at CDM Penang

Dec 18, 2015

By Hannah Rose Lee
On Nov 15, 2015, Catechism classes for the year came to a close at the Church of the Divine Mercy. In celebration of this last day of Catechism, an Open Day was held. Classes had parties and students were recognized for their work in understanding the faith. Parents were also invited to class to witness their children receive prizes and to talk with teachers about their children’s faith journey.

It was a fun-filled time as the students were able to enjoy fellowship with other classes. The students were also asked by their catechists what they really liked about catechism and what needed to be improved.

Angelii Raj Kaur, a Form 2 student, said that she comes  to catechism “... to learn about God and to have fun. It has affected my life; it has helped me increase my faith.”

Michelle Gomez, from Year 5, said that she found Catechism fun. “I like the stories because they make things easier to understand and remember. I hope next year will be something like this year, something fun.”

Shireen Lee, a Year 6 teacher enjoyed teaching her 2015 class: “What I liked best about this year was that the children were responsive and friendly.” When asked what she would do differently for next year, she replied, “Maybe we could do more class activities.” She did express the hope that next year’s class would be more willing to join some of  the many church ministries to give back to the community.  When a parent was asked if he thought that Catechism increased their child’s faith, he replied, “Yes, I think it helps develop their spiritual life instead of always focusing on their school studies.”

Gilbert Gomez, the father of Michelle (Year 5) and Melanie (Form 3) also added, “It also helps them become more participative in Mass.”

At the end of the Open Day, parents had become more aware of the role of teachers in helping with their children’s faith journey. In addition, they were also grateful for the unfailing support and guidance of their parish priest, Fr Martin Arlando in providing the spiritual environment to help build  a better future Christian community at CDM.

Yvonne Marisel James (top pic) receiving an award for Best Workbook in Year 6