By Caroline Smith
Parents and teachers looking for ways to discuss faith with their children may find a handy resource in 40fied The Kids Magazine published by Sydney-based company, The LMent.
The contemporary 40-page fully illustrated Catholic kids magazine, launched early last year, is filled with inspiring stories, edifying activities, essential information and amazing facts aimed at kids on their spiritual journey.
The first issue focused on the season of Lent, including information on the Paschal Candle, how to make a cross from a palm leaf, a cartoon about children giving things up for Lent, and a ‘biblical ballad’ called The Way of the Cross.
More general features included the story of St Dominic Savio, character profiles on Adam and Eve, a cartoon illustrating the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:1-23) and a Guardian Angel wall poster.
A total of four magazines were produced in 2016 with each taking a different theme: Lent, the story of the Good Shepherd, Mother Mary and the Advent/Christmas season.
While the publication’s content largely revolves around these themes – with colouring in activities, stories, recipes and craft projects focused on the topic being explored – there are also recurring features.
These include the Parish family, who come to life in a comic strip to teach lessons about family, community and helping others, Travis the pigeon who visits a different place of worship in each edition, the ‘hall of faith’ which explores people throughout history who have played an important part in the Church, or the cartoon characters Ozy and Oly who introduce the ‘Armour of God’ – elements of faith that can give children strength in their everyday lives.
Other general activities throughout include a cross word, word search and wall poster as well as sections on craft and cooking – all focusing on the relevant theme.
For example, the issue about ‘the Good Shepherd’ featured a recipe for cauliflower sheep and a ‘biblical ballad’ on lost sheep, amongst other things.
Full of inspiring stories from scripture, fun characters and colourful designs throughout, these magazines provide a solid resource for kids and adults alike – with specific information about the Catholic faith introduced through profiles of saints, places of worship and explanations of liturgical symbolism.
Founders of 40fied The Kids Magazine, Mervyn and Liz Soares say the publication is intended to be the first of its kind.
“It has been designed by myself and my wife, who are parents experienced with the formation of their own children and through catechist work in state schools,” Mr Soares said.
“We really wanted to create a modern, attractive resource engaging eight to 12 year olds of today in a deeper love of Christ and our Church.”
For more information on The Kids Magazine, go to http://40fied.com.au