By Brendan Dempsey, Cork Regional President SVP
The Cork Regional President of the Society of St.Vincent de Paul has called for an end to pressures placed on families by First Communions and Confirmations.
Brendan Dempsey said that there is no justification for continuing a system which is not of benefit to families, but where the occasion should be one of enjoyment, causes severe stress and financial difficulties.
“First Communions and Confirmations are coming shortly and it would be helpful if a school/church smock or gown could be worn over everyday clothes for the occasion, “ he said and suggested that this smock or gown could be passed on each year by the school to the next class, reducing the cost for families.
“The Sacraments are after all free to families. What costs families dear is what amounts to a fashion parade, which is grand for those who can afford it but crippling for families on the minimum wage or Social Welfare. It is those who can least afford it, who spend most.
“It is time to call a halt to this situation,” the Cork Regional President said, adding that the matter has been discussed for several years, but nothing has been done about it. “There is no justification for this system, which causes so much stress, strain, upset, family difficulties and financial problems. Why is it continuing, who is benefiting most from it? It is certainly not the families who are subjected to the pressures from it which they cannot bear.”
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