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July 19, 2021We have continued to be blessed with a high degree of family engagement at our 9:30 am Sunday Mass these past several months! The Family Faith Formation team and their committed leaders have worked with Fr. Paddy & Fr. Alex to institute a number of new activities, in order to help each young family feel welcome and a valued member of this faith community.
As you may know, we have revamped the 9:30 am Mass so that each homily is family-friendly and the readings are from the Children’s Lectionary, so the language is simplified and easier for our younger children to comprehend. Fr. Alex also provides commentary on different parts of the Mass, to provide context and help our children understand what is going on. Our music at this Mass has been updated to engage our children. For example, rhythm instruments are handed out a once or twice a month to be played during the Gloria, Alleluia and the processional or recessional song. For the songs with hand motions, we invite children to help lead the congregation. Catechesis is worked into each Mass to help children understand valuable parts of the Catholic faith and this is accomplished through themed units every 6-7 weeks. Past themes have included Lent in a Tent and Gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Another important initiative that has borne much fruit is that of our Child Readers at this Mass. We have been inviting our families with older Elementary/Middle School age children in the Proclamation of the Word, and our younger Elementary age children in the Prayers of the Faithful. Coaching for the child lectors by an experienced adult is offered to support each family. It has been truly wonderful to see our children grow in their faith and discover a love for Scripture that they did not know they had!
Other engagement opportunities continue to exist in Hospitality, such as having children hand out song sheets at the door before Mass. We also have been asking our families to bring up the Offertory Gifts during Mass. This provides a way for families to serve together and feel like active participants, no matter what their age.
We have included some parent testimonials, as well as some photos below, showing some of these activities in action. We feel so grateful to you, our parents, who have continued to support Family Faith Formation. You truly provide a wonderful example of the Domestic Church in action!
