Nurturing the domestic church

Catholic children’s faith formation in the context of the covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

This study examines Catholic children’s faith education during the Covid-19 pandemic, a period when parish-based catechesis and communal worship were largely suspended. The research aimed to explore how faith formation continued within families, identify those responsible, determine when it should be given, and assess its urgency. Using a qualitative method, data were collected through in-depth, systematic interviews with some participants representing parents, Church leaders, catechists, and children, supported by relevant Church documents and literature. Findings reveal that the family assumed a central role as the “school of faith,” providing simple catechesis through prayer, Marian devotion, and modeling Christian living. Key practices included teaching basic prayers, creating a conducive prayer environment, monitoring children’s faith growth with love, and fostering unity with the universal Church through online worship. Adequate facilities, such as internet access and prayer spaces, were essential for effective faith formation. However, challenges arose from parents’ work demands, limited time, economic constraints, and lack of resources. The study concludes that sustaining children’s faith during crises requires intentional parental involvement, pastoral support, and collaboration between family and Church. Strengthening the domestic Church is vital to ensuring that Catholic children grow as committed members of the Body of Christ in any context.