Mass Distraction
Posted by Arwen Mosher in Faith on Monday, June 30, 2008
It’s hard to admit, but I don’t enjoy going to Mass as much as I once did. Before I was a mother, I’d often walk out of Mass feeling that the grace I’d received from hearing the Scriptures and receiving the Eucharist was actually palpable. These days, what’s palpable is the aching in my arms from restraining my daughter as she tries to squirm out of the pew and explore. I’ve usually spent a part of... READ MORE
Taking Kids to Mass
Posted by Diane Calvin in Features on Monday, July 14, 2008
It was a typically busy week in the Buchholz home, with Craig working long hours at the office and Jen tending to their two energetic young sons. After receiving Communion that Sunday at Mass, Jen wanted nothing more than to spend just a few peaceful moments with the Lord.
Her plans were thwarted by 3-year-old Will, who kicked and screamed his way back to their pew, protesting loudly, “But I want... READ MORE
The Tardiness Quiz
Posted by Melissa Hartog in Mind Games on Friday, August 15, 2008
Are you chronically late?
Sick of the panicked, helpless rush? Here are questions to help.
STEP ONE: Look at yourself.
Lay down on the psychologist’s couch. Your attitude toward your tardiness is the first thing to look at. Which of these statements best describes you?
A. I’m fine. I’m always at my desk before 10, in Mass before the Gospel, at parties when people are actually there and talking.
... READ MOREServing with a Smile
Posted by Lisa Hendey in Faith on Saturday, August 30, 2008
Earlier this week, my 8th grade son Adam attended part one of his annual two part Altar Server Training. On a blazing hot Fresno afternoon, after seven hours of sitting in a classroom and longing for a break, Adam and multiple serving colleagues met with our Coordinator to be briefed on the latest nuances in their duties in serving at the Lord’s altar.
I feel blessed beyond measure that both of... READ MORE
Sanctifying Sunday
Posted by Lisa Hendey in Faith on Saturday, September 06, 2008
In my recent meeting with Andy from our Diocesan Family Life Office, one of the topics he stressed to me was his concern for helping the families of our diocese to live out the precepts of the Third Commandment, reserving Sunday as a day for worship, rest and family time.
Andy’s passion on the topic got me thinking. I came home and queried my friends at Plurk.com with the simple question, “How... READ MORE
At Peace?
Posted by Rachel Balducci in Family on Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Last Sunday, I had a terribly strange, terribly unnerving experience during Mass. When it was time to offer peace to those around us, the gentleman in front of my family would not offer me peace.
To set the scene: Paul was with two of the boys in the back of the church, and our oldest son was serving the altar. That left me and our two other boys sitting together.
We attend the early Mass each... READ MORE
‘Mass’ Play
Posted by Arwen Mosher in Family on Friday, October 24, 2008
A while ago I wrote about catechizing toddlers - how to do it, and how much it’s really possible to do it.
I’m happy to report it’s going well around here. Camilla can make the sign of the cross, knows how to dip her hand carefully in the holy water and genuflect when we go up for communion, can identify Jesus on the crucifix, and always insists upon praying before meals.
We still have a long way to go. I’ll be very happy when she finally understands that it’s important to be quiet and reverent during the consecration. But she’s just two, so I figure we have lots of time ahead of us.
On the other hand, sometimes the little two-year-olds are absorbing a lot more than we think they are. This recent episode between my nephew and my daughter is evidence:
Page 1 of 1 pages
RSS Feeds
