Parents' wrong attitude towards Duttrina (1)

Michela Spiteri's column (The Sunday Times, November 23) was entitled 'That dreaded Duttrina'. I wish to tell her, and all those parents who think like her, that for anything worthwhile, we need to make some sacrifices.

Until recently, the Sacrament of Confirmation was being received by young children who were not mature enough to understand what they were receiving. Another thing to keep in mind is that Duttrina lessons are given in the parish and not at school, so as to help children feel they belong in the parish community. Jesus did not give His sacraments to us so we can dress up and have a party like our friends. Also, Jesus Christ did not speak because He wished to be popular. The Church - or indeed God - does not need us. But we need Jesus, His Church and His Sacraments.

I am sure Ms Spiteri and her ilk would do anything for their daughter to pass her ballet exam or their son to do well in his judo class; and that is a good thing. Why do they think their children's spiritual welfare is less important than these extracurricular activities? Do they not want to develop their child's personality holistically?