Order of Initiation of Children Who Have Reached Catechetical Age 215 in progress is shared and supported within this catechetical group as if upon a foundation. b) Still, it is desired that the same children, insofar as possible, likewise find help and example from their parents, whose permission is required for their Initiation, and also to lead their future Christian life. Therefore the time of Initiation will fittingly offer the family an opportunity to speak with Priests and catechists. 255. According to the circumstances, it is useful for several children in the same situation to join together at the same time in the celebrations of this Order, so that they may help one another by mutual example on the journey of the catechumenate. 256. As to the time of the celebrations, it is desired that, insofar as possible, the final period of preparation, begun by the second step, the Penitential Rites (or by the optional Rite of Election), coincide with Lent, and the Sacraments themselves be celebrated at the Easter Vigil (cf. no. 8). But before children may be admitted to the Sacraments at the Paschal Feasts, it must be discerned not only whether they are now ready, but also whether the period conforms to the order of catechetical instruction that they are taking. Insofar as possible, care should be taken that the children approach the Sacraments of Initiation while their companions who have already been baptized are admitted to Confirmation or the Eucharist. 257. Celebrations should take place with the active participation of some of the congregation, which, comprising a fitting number of the faithful, is made up of parents and family, and also of companions of the catechetical group and some adult relatives. For usually when children of this age are initiated, the presence of the whole parish community is not desirable; it is enough that it be represented. 258. The Conferences of Bishops may accept fitting adaptations and amendments to this Order as it has been prepared, by which it may respond more fully to the needs and circumstances of the region, and to pastoral opportunities. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has done this by providing an optional “Rite of Election” before “Second Step: Scrutinies or Penitential Rites.” The Rites of “Handing On,” in use for adults (cf. nos. 157-162, 178-183), may be added, adapted to the age of the children. So when this Order 309 310 USA 311 312 USA
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