Evaluating the effects of a first communion preparation program on parent-participants: a parish-based analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess how adult education sessions impacted the faith lives of the parents (N = 43) of children enrolled in a First Communion Preparation Program for Catholics. To do this, the strength of the parents’ relationship with Jesus and their belief in his Real Presence in the Eucharist were measured at the beginning and the end of the program. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected and analyzed. From a quantitative perspective, the results indicated statistically significant increases in both the strength of the participants’ relationship with Jesus and their belief in the Real Presence. Analysis of the qualitative data resulted in the emergence of several dominant themes which pertained to the participants’ impressions of the program. While further investigation is definitely warranted, this study began to lay a foundation of research-based knowledge in an area very much aligned with the Church’s mission.

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