La sperimentazione, se il catechismo lo fanno i genitori

The Diocese of Massa Carrara Pontremoli has entered the second year of an experimental program for Christian initiation that focuses on teaching families and adults before children. This approach follows a decision by the bishop to temporarily suspend the roles of godparents during the sacrament of baptism and confirmation to restructure the initiation process. The change was prompted by concerns that parents did not fully understand the importance of godparents.

The new model also addresses requests from priests to create more consistent religious education across pastoral units. Working with the national catechetical office, the diocese is prioritizing a "second first announcement" that offers an encounter with Jesus rather than focusing immediately on doctrinal content.

To support this transition, the diocese has implemented widespread training for all catechists and pastoral workers, led by Father Francesco Vanotti and Professor Fabrizio Carletti. The bishop also appointed a staff consisting of members from the diocesan offices for evangelization, catechesis, liturgy, and family ministry to provide guidance.