Rationale
The Sacrament of the Eucharist is an important component of the Religious Education program. Noted by the Second Vatican Council, the Eucharist is both the summit and source of our Catholic faith (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2003). In celebration of the Eucharist, we are reminded of Jesus' life and teachings along with our salvation through God's saving actions (Cooke, 1994). Furthermore, we are able to give thanks to God for the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Twenty-Third Publications, 2012). In the lower primary school years, students are introduced to the Eucharist by means of engaging with relevant scripture passages, sharing simple meals and learning about Jesus' presence in the celebration (CEO, 2006). In the middle years of schooling, the Eucharist is explored in greater depth as the students further develop their understanding and knowledge of its meaning and purpose (CEO, 2006). As a topic of focus in the Religious Education Curriculum, it is essential that the religious educators explicitly teach the sacrament through an effective means. In doing so, teachers may ensure that students establish a sound understanding of the elements of Eucharist as they broaden their awareness of the very importance of the Eucharistic celebration in their Christian lives. Recognised, the Eucharist is central to our faith as it sustains our spiritual lives (Cameli, 2012). Through this unit, students are able to acknowledge that the Eucharist strengthens ones faith and service to the world (Irwin, 2005).
Learning about the Eucharist is important given that it is the central celebration of the Catholic community (CEO, 2006). Knowing this, this unit is additionally purposed to equip the students with the knowledge and information necessary for participating fully in the Mass (White, & White, 2004). As the key sacrament of Christian initiation, the sacrament further stresses the significance of building strong relationships with those of the faith (Cooke, 1994). For this reason, the area of focus enables teachers to work in partnership with the parish and families to develop and implement programs that are most applicable for teaching the topic of Eucharist. This corresponds, for example, with the development of a parish-based sacramental program that both plans and prepares students for their reception of the sacrament: their First Communion (Ryan, 2006). Furthermore, providing various learning experiences will assist students understanding of what it means to participate in a celebration that has a wider community focus as well as belonging to the faith community (Archdiocese of Sydney, 2006).
Learning about the Eucharist is important given that it is the central celebration of the Catholic community (CEO, 2006). Knowing this, this unit is additionally purposed to equip the students with the knowledge and information necessary for participating fully in the Mass (White, & White, 2004). As the key sacrament of Christian initiation, the sacrament further stresses the significance of building strong relationships with those of the faith (Cooke, 1994). For this reason, the area of focus enables teachers to work in partnership with the parish and families to develop and implement programs that are most applicable for teaching the topic of Eucharist. This corresponds, for example, with the development of a parish-based sacramental program that both plans and prepares students for their reception of the sacrament: their First Communion (Ryan, 2006). Furthermore, providing various learning experiences will assist students understanding of what it means to participate in a celebration that has a wider community focus as well as belonging to the faith community (Archdiocese of Sydney, 2006).