We need your children at Mass. Yes, even if your toddler talks out loud, drops Cheerios on the floor, and practices runnling in the aisle, we'll be OK. We want you to be with us even if your baby squalls in the middle of the Consecration or your pre-teens sit with their arms crossed and teeth clenched. We need you to "remind us that the Gospel is meant to be lived in homes and neighborhoods, not just in a church building. You remind us that waking in the middle of the night to change diapers, using dessert as leverage for the consuming of asparagus, brushing hair, folding socks, and buying science fair display boards are all corporal works of mercy." Read more about why we hope you're with us every weekend in Here's the Thing About Kids at Mass. Children are formed first of all in your home, but they are also formed in the midst of the assembly in church, and they shape us, too. We need and want your children to be with us at Mass.
Want some tips shared by one family with years of experience taking children to Mass? Josh and Stacy Noem offer paractical advice for before, during, and after Mass so that Sunday morning might be a more pleasant experience for all of you.
Is it tough to pray in the midst of busy family life? These ten pointers might help you respond to God who wants to be close to you and your family.
Family prayer aides our parish has developed and which you can download include