Sample Palanca Letter Template

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St. Peter’s School of Religion
St. Peter’s School of Religion, , , , 2900 Sandy Spring Road
2900 Sandy Spring Road, , , , Olney, MD 20832
Olney, MD 20832 (301) 570
(301) 570- - - - 4952
4952
St. Peter’s School of Religion
St. Peter’s School of Religion
2900 Sandy Spring Road
2900 Sandy Spring Road
Olney, MD 20832
Olney, MD 20832
(301) 570
(301) 570
4952
4952
PALANCA LETTERS
CONFIRMATION 2012-2013
“Palanca” in Spanish means “lever”. Palanca, for our purposes, is a spiritual lever used to move
people, gently and lovingly, toward God. It comes in the form of a letter written to give support
and guidance in the form of a prayer, sacrifice, and heart to heart communication.
Who is it from and who is it for?
We ask that each parent/guardian/confirmation sponsor/family member/significant adult role
model (like teachers, catechists, coaches, neighbors, etc.) write a letter to your Confirmation
candidate.
What can it do?
The long and short range results of Palanca are quite positive and very moving. Often times it re-
opens the lines of communication between parents and teens, allowing each to gain insight and
understanding of each other. God also takes advantage of this opportunity, revealing Himself to
us through each other.
Why is it so important?
It is important that at least all parent(s)/guardian(s) write letters to their Confirmation candidate.
Consider all the good the Palanca can do for your teenager and for you. Also, be aware of your
teenager’s feelings if everyone but your son or daughter received a Palanca letter.
What things should be included?
Describe specifically why you believe this teenager is such a wonderful, unique creation of
God. What is it about who they are that demonstrates their goodness?
Describe how proud you are of this young person for his/her preparation for Confirmation –
the effort, the service, prayer, concern, and care he/she has shown.
Describe the special place in the family this young person holds; what you look for in him/her
that no one else can give; how he/she has brought love and joy to the family and to others.
Tell how much you love him/her and how grateful you are for all he/she is to you and to
others.
Encouragement your teenager to come to you in times of pain, discouragement, and failure.
Include an expression of sorrow for those moments of weakness or failure in your own life.
Express the hope that this young person will always strive to grow in his/her relationship with
Jesus Christ and His Church.
Mention any prayer/sacrifice you have offered on their behalf (a spiritual bouquet).
Where and when?
Each Palanca letter should be sealed in its own envelope. On the front side of the envelope(s),
print the first and last name of your teenager. Then we ask that you put the small envelope(s)
inside a larger size envelope print on the front “PALANCA letters for (name of Confirmation
candidate).
Palanca Letter Prayer Service
A Mini Retreat will be held prior to Confirmation during regular class time. Students will receive
Palanca letters at that time.
(Turn over for sample Palanca Letter)

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