The Road Emmaus and Family Feature Friday: Incredibles
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In this Sunday’s Gospel, we read the account of the Road to Emmaus. This accounts two of the Jesus’ followers, are leaving Jerusalem, disheartened and disappointed after the death of Jesus Christ. We hear that the resurrected Christ walks with them, and unbeknownst to them, they think it is a stranger, journey with them to Emmaus. It is not until the Eucharistic celebration that they recognize Christ in the breaking of the bread, reminding us that Christ institutes the Eucharist so to be present with us, even unto this age.
The Mass readings can be found here.
Elementary Activities:
Colored Cards
City of Jerusalem Map
Sensory Prayer Walk
Tea Light Candles
Family Lord’s Day (with younger children)
High School:
Lectio Divina for this Sunday’s Gospel
Bishop Robert Barron’s Reflection on the Road to Emmaus
We have a God, who accompanies. When did you first start to see the Lord working in your life? Chances are it wasn’t so much a St. Paul conversion, but one that was slow and in stages. Each person’s faith journey is often brought with baggage and slow movements to change (mine certainly was).
To be a good teacher, the teacher needs to be patient as the student learns the concepts. Imagine the calculus teacher, who is teaching new information; she cannot assume her students comprehend it at the first lesson. Lots of patience and support help the student to learn the information well.
Christ Jesus is the model teacher, and though the two disciples were not getting that is was him right away, he continued to walk with them. Jesus listened to their complaints and frustrations that the Lord was nowhere to be found. Jesus breaks open the Scriptures, reinforcing that which the prophets spoke about the Messiah. It was in the breaking of the bread, that these two disciples recognized the risen Christ.
We are called to be evangelizers that share the Good News of Christ, but one of the best ways to follow is to first listen and to be patient as our friends, family, and peers encounter Jesus. We are called to listen to the frustrations and despair, but we are then to share the Good News and the hope that is found in the Church, the Body of Christ!
The two disciples, upon recognizing Christ, run back to Jerusalem (in the middle of the night!) to share that they had seen the risen Lord, to bring forth light into the world! May our hearts continue to burn deep within us, that we might share that we too have encountered the Lord.
The movie that I am recommending this week is "The Incredible's". Behind the funny moments and action scenes, this movie actually covers some heavy topics: from dealing with depression and finding self-worth, to keeping a family together and fears of infidelity. The movie (2004) is rated PG and runs 116 mins.
1) The main theme of the movie is learning how to use your unique gifts to their fullest potential. This is how you fulfill God's plan for your life. Just like the Incredible's you have your own unique gift. Are you using it or developing it at all? Are you using it responsibly?
2) Reflect on this quotation, "With great power comes great responsibility". How did each character use (or not use) their gift at the beginning and end of the movie? When was it used responsibly, when was it used irresponsibly?
Answer: In the beginning Violet hated her uniqueness. Violet needed to learn to accept and actually use her gift. Dash only knew how to use his gift for his own selfish purposes and glory. By the end of the movie, he learned how to use his gifts to help other people other than himself. Mrs. Incredible didn't use her power outside the house because she wanted to protect her family and fit in with the rest of society. She realizes by the end of the movie that each family member needs to let their gift shine. Mr. Incredible used his gift in secret and against the law, similarly to Dash, he was just doing good things to make himself feel good, to remember the glory days. He learned that his family comes first and that he should use his power
3) Reflect on this Bible Passage:
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.
a) Do we sometimes hide our belief in God just to fit in just like Violet or Mrs. Incredible? Are we sometimes tempted to "keep religion in the home"? Do we sometimes suppress our gifts because of fear? Fear of failure? Fear of judgement?
b) Do we sometimes accomplish something with our gifts and think, "I did it" or "I am great" like Dash and Mr. Incredible did? Do we use our gifts selfishly, or do we glorify God and thank him for out gifts?
4) Mr. Incredible is a man with many great qualities, but he sometimes makes poor and immoral decisions. What were his poor decisions and what caused him to make them? How does the devil sometimes twist good things into bad things?
Answer: His quality of justice causes him to stand up to his boss at his office job.That is good. That same quality leads him to punching his boss in anger. His good quality of a fatherly desire to provide for his family causes him to make a shady deal with a secret company just so he can have a good paying job. His shame of not being able to provide for his family causes him to lie to his wife and keep secrets from his family. The devil cannot create. He can only take good things that God has made and twist them so they become bad things.He just takes a good quality, adds in pride and selfishness, and then he gets a bad action.
Message to parents about film recommendations and reflections:
I have been struggling over what movies to recommend for the family to watch and have reflections over. There are some great movies like "Les Miserable" and "Rudy", but unfortunately they are not for the family due to either language or thematic elements. Then the other route I was thinking of going were the classic movie route like "Barabbas (1961)" or "The Robe (1953)". Both of those movies and others like them are fantastic, but again, do not fit into the family friendly category. Not because of content though, but because those movies are more for the movie connoisseurs than a relaxed family movie night pick. Kids and teens will likely find them to be old, boring, and dialogue heavy. Moreover, as it relates to reflection questions, the movies like "Barabbas" and "Joan of Arc" have their lessons built into the movies, and it would almost be redundant to create reflections questions for them. They are already overtly designed to make you think about your relationship with God.
So, I have decided to stick to animated films to recommend and write review questions for. This way, the movies can stay family friendly, and the discussion questions can lead conversation in a Godly direction that the film does not overtly provide. Even if teens have already seen the movie as a kid, these movies are great on the re-watch, and the reflection questions will add value. You might be surprised at how deep some children's animated films can get.
God Bless and enjoy the family movie night,
The Faith Formation Team
Care For God's Creation and Earth Day
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Happy Earth Day! Today gives us the opportunity to reflect on the good that is in creation. Everything was made by God, and all of creation desires to return to Him. Humanity is given the task of having stewardship over the Earth and taking care for God’s creation.
Older Kid Activities:
Take sometime to reflect on the first chapter of Genesis. This is one of the two creation accounts. God has made everything good. As stewards we are to remember the Earth in God’s, and we are called to take care of it.
Articles on Creation:
Laudato Si, Creation, and Humanism from Ascension Press
The Sacramental Vision from Ascension Press
Pope Francis’ encyclical LAUDATO SI’
Faith Like Thomas
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This past Sunday, we heard the Gospel account St. Thomas, today we have reflections and activities for the family to use to meditate on the past Sunday’s liturgy.
Elementary School:
Caravaggio’s Coloring Page
Doubting Thomas Game
Doubting Thomas Word Search
Doubting Thomas Sandwich
Middle School:
First, review the story of Doubting Thomas. If they have not heard it before or don't remember the details, they can be found in John 20: 19-31.
1) What are some things that you believe in that you cannot see? Why do you believe in it/them? Why do you trust the people that told you about it/them?
2) Do we sometimes wish we could get the same physical proof that Thomas got? What would we gain with that proof? What would we lose?
3) Why do you think Jesus let Thomas touch him to make sure he was real?
4) Some people say that Thomas was just being a pessimist. He was devastated by the death of Jesus and he did not want to get his hopes up because he feared becoming sad again if those hopes were crushed. Is there anything in your life where you have felt that it is better to just have low expectations so you are not disappointed? You don't have to answer. Just reflect on those thoughts, and then reflect on the words used before, "fear" and "hope". How are those words related to each other? Do they oppose or support each other? What does God teach about fear and hope?
Dear Jesus, You are the source of hope and goodness in the world. But like Thomas, we are not perfect and sometimes we forget that. Please give us faith so that we may fully trust in You and never have to fear anything. May our hope in You never waver because of fear. Amen.
High School:
Thomas get a pretty bad rap. His hallmark to infamy is that he is the one that doubted. Sure enough though, St. Thomas of Didymus, is nevertheless a saint, who was martyred for the faith. In John 14:5 St. Thomas asks a crucial question on how we are to go to the Father, and Christ, reminds him and us that it is through him, the Son of God, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, that we can enter into the Kingdom of God. St. Thomas went to India when all of the disciples were sent after Pentecost, and he continued to spread the Gospel, until his martyrdom. Though he doubted, he professes the truth of Jesus, “My Lord and My God”. (Jn20:28). We too must enter into that truth again and again, as our lives are ultimately changed through each encounter with Christ.
In prayer, take some time to reflect on Caravaggio’s The Incredulity of Saint Thomas this painting (found above) depicts the moment Thomas put his hand into the side of Jesus. The image might make your stomach sour for a minute as Thomas is touching the glorified bodied of Jesus. The wounds are there, the marks of the Cross still present. However, this depiction affirms our faith. JESUS ROSE FROM THE DEAD! It was not a ghostly appearance, but it was him in his flesh. Thomas is dressed in the clothes of a beggar, symbolizing his poor faith. Christ is radiant, so much so that his light reflects off his Apostles. This reminds us that we too are called to share the light of Christ to the world.
Here is an additional reflection from Word on Fire about St. Thomas.
Divine Mercy Sunday and Family Feature Friday: Emperor's New Groove
/This Sunday is Divine Mercy Sunday. Here is some family activities:
How to Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet
Divine Mercy Ring (with a Coloring Option)
Divine Mercy Water Color Print Offs (with Instructions)
Divine Mercy Sundaes
Family Feature Friday: The Emperor’s New Groove
This Easter season is a perfect time to get together with your family. As such, we will start recommending movies for the family and provide discussion questions to have about the movie.
The first movie we are recommending is "The Emperor's New Groove". It is a great short buddy comedy by Disney that the whole family can enjoy. It is about how a spoiled and selfish prince learns that the whole world does not revolve around him. It is a story of redemption, friendship, and fatherly love.
It is rated G and the run time is 118 minutes. It can be purchased or rented on Amazon. Following the movie, there are some reflection questions below.
Emperor's New Groove Reflection Questions:
1. In what ways is Kuzco's story similar to the parable of the Prodigal Son (Lost Son)?
2. Originally, Pacha was frustrated and angry with Kuzco, but those reactions were not very effective. What was finally effective for changing Kuzco's mind?
3. In what ways is Pacha a good father or husband? In which ways is he imperfect as a father or a husband?
4. Did Pacha treat Kuzco like a son or a friend? What is the difference?
5. What are all the ways in which Kuzco's selfish actions at the beginning of the film backfired on him?
6. Reflect on this Bible passage and how it relates to the film:
Romans 12: 14-21
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written: “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. “But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
7. Both Yyzma and Pacha felt wronged by Kuzco, how did they each deal with with their anger at injustice?
8. What did this movie teach us about how we should treat those that wrong us?
Easter Octave Family Activities
/Happy Easter! Christ is Risen Alleluia!
The Easter Season is 50 days long, ending with the celebration of Pentecost, but these 8 days are especially joyful as we celebrate the Easter Octave!
During this time, we encourage the family to continue to celebrate the joy of the Resurrection.
Activities for Elementary Aged Children:
Color by Number Cross
Easter Calendar
Easter Rocks
Easter Cards (3-5)
Easter Cards (6-9)
Easter Tea
Activities for Middle and High Aged Teens:
Praise be to God! Even in the moments that seem the darkest, Christ still brings light through the glory of his Resurrection! This week among all the strife is a good week to sit outside and take in the beauty of creation. One day this week, wake up before sunrise and sit outside or find a window and watch the sunrise. Take a journal or a piece of paper and write some of the ways that your have been blessed.
Article: The Joy of the Easter Season
Here is a Scriptural study on the readings from Easter Sunday by Jeff Cavins.
Easter Sunday at Home
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Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Today we celebrate the holiest day of the year. Christ has conquered sin and death, and he invites us into that victory with him. Today is a celebratory day. The priests wear gold vestments and the music within the liturgy echoes the triumphant melody.
Watch the Livestream of the Mass at 9 am in English (or 11 am in Spanish). Consider praying the Apostles’ Creed today as a family or the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary.
Elementary Age Activities:
Easter Banner ( and Fillable Version)
Easter Bingo (and Instructions)
Easter Garden (and Photo Example)
Middle and High School Activities:
Our whole Christian identity relies on the mere fact that Christ rose from the dead. Today we celebrate and reconfirm our belief that that death has been defeated in Jesus Christ, and he is triumphant in reconciling humanity back to himself. This is Good News! Incredible News! This is our Faith! Instead of hello or a good morning, the traditional Christian greeting on Easter, is “Christ is Risen!” and the response is “Christ is risen indeed”. The whole faith hinges on the Resurrection of Christ, so let’s continue to proclaim the hope that is in Christ Jesus.
Look into the traditions of Easter: Why Easter Eggs and Other Easter Traditions?
Reflection on Finding Hope in Easter
Spend Some Time Praying with the Easter Gospel
Easter Sunday Reflection:
Christ's Radical Victory through the Cross by Kenneth Manyari Magro
This Easter at home offers us a special opportunity to reflect on this celebration as a family. The theme of this reflection is: sometimes tragic events are not what they seem.
I had a good friend in college and we had this recurring debate about awkward situations. He would say that some situations are inherently awkward, but my position was, "it's only awkward if you make it awkward". The argument always came up whenever he was trying to avoid some sort of fun activity or responsibility. "No I don't want to do that, it would be awkward". But, I never let him get away with that excuse, and so the argument would begin. And yes, we even debated if having your pants fall off in class was an inherently awkward situation. But I held firm because I believed that if you went through life with complete confidence and the right attitude, then you could turn any situation into a comfortable one.
This was all a fun debate between friends at the time, but looking back on it, I think it says something important about the way we can view any situation. Instead of awkward situations, can't the same be said about tragic situations? It's only tragic if you make it tragic.
There is something unnerving about positively optimistic people. Why can't they just experience fear and dread like the rest of us? "What is wrong with them?" we seem to think. We have an urge to bring them down to our pessimistic level. But there is a difference between optimism and naivety. Whenever I think of optimism, I think of the book, "The Hiding Place". It is a book about a Christian living in a concentration camp with her sister. It is authored by Corrie ten Boom. Corrie's sister was one of those optimistic people. Even in the concentration camp, her optimism never wavered, much to the annoyance of her Corrie. One time, Corrie's sister even thanked God for the flea infestation which had just taken over their living quarters. Corrie thought, how on earth could she be thankful for yet another misfortune, as if being in a concentration camp wasn't bad enough already, and now they had to deal with fleas. But it is not until 4-5 chapters later that Corrie then realizes that the flea infestation kept the Nazi guards away from the living quarters, which allowed Corrie and her friends the ability to have their secret Bible studies. If it weren't for the fleas, they would have been caught. There is a bright side to every situation, we just need hope to see it, and the trust in God to know it is there even if we can't see it.
And so every tragic situation can be seen in a different light. Maybe it is hard to see the good in the death of a loved one, or even a terrible global calamity, but if we have our hope and trust in God, we can always be optimistic in every situation.
I remember listening to Father Anthony's sermon on the story of Lazarus, and the statement he made that struck me was, "Fear of death is the instrument of Satan's power over us". When we fear death, we do not hope and trust in the Lord. Because we should know that death is not the end, it is not even the beginning of the end. It is the end of the beginning. For our next lives is where we were truly meant to be. Death is just the beginning.
So our human understanding will mourn death, sickness, poverty, tragedy and war. And we should mourn those things, but we should not be discouraged or defeated by any of those things. Let's say something tragic happens to us, how do we respond? Do we pout, sulk, curse and despair? If we do that, then we have truly created a tragedy. Or do we hope, trust, and look forward to our reunification with God? It is only tragic if you make it tragic.
I feel as though this is the message that Jesus was trying to send us throughout his entire ministry. Starting all the way since the Beatitudes, "...Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the Earth...: to teachings like "The last shall be first and the first shall be last". Jesus was trying to flip human understanding completely on its head. And all these seemingly far-fetched contradictions culminated in one last oxymoron: victory on the cross.
Human being's understanding of victory and success is completely different from God's. The Jews were expecting some political and/or military Messiah that would deliver them from the Romans. But God had a different plan. A plan that included victory over death, with a death. Satan was probably celebrating Jesus was crucified, little did he know that the "tragedy" of the crucifixion would become God's greatest glory. It's only tragic if you make it tragic.
So what do you have to be thankful for. In what ways do you see God's victory even in this present situation? Today is a day of celebration. A celebration of how God took away our need to fear death.
Good Friday at Home
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Today we contemplate the essential mystery of our faith- that God himself would die for us, so that we may be reconciled with him. Today we hold a bodily fast from food, and we limit the amount of activity in solemn observance of the Cross.
Your family can livestream the Good Friday Service at 3 pm.
Activities for Families with Elementary School Children:
The Gift of Silence During Covid-19
Good Friday Nature Walk
Good Friday Guided Meditation
Hot Cross Buns (and a Gluten-Free Recipe)
Veneration of the Cross at Home
For Families with Middle and High School Teens:
To walk alongside Christ is a challenging endeavor. We see even the disciples who walked with Jesus for years were nowhere to be seen when he carried his Cross. Jesus says “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it,” (Luke 9:23-24). Each bit of suffering we endure is a participation of the Cross that Christ carried for our sake.
On Good Friday, we take a step away from our usual activities in remembrance of Christ’s passion, but between the hours of 12 pm and 3 pm, the hours when Christ was on the Cross, we can take the opportunity to be like Mary and John, present with Jesus. During this time, you can pray a Scriptural Rosary, a Divine Mercy Chaplet, pray the Stations of the Cross, reflect on the Passion Narrative, meditate on Jesus’ Seven Last Words, and watch the service from the livestream at 3 pm. Above all though, we can take the time to be silent and present with the Lord.
Scriptural Rosary for Good Friday
Divine Mercy Chaplet
Stations of the Cross
Passion Narrative (Readings for Good Friday)
Jesus’ Seven Last Words
Triduum Liturgical Guide
Good Friday Reflection:
Where was Peter? The disciple who in all zeal cut the ear off the Roman solider and had promised to die for Christ was no longer with him. His life shaken and caught off guard in the early hours of the morning, and three times before the cock crowed, he had denied Jesus.
Peter earlier in Jesus’ public ministry acclaimed complete faithfulness to his teacher. During the Bread of Life discourse when all of Jesus’ followers began to reject him, “Jesus said to the Twelve, ‘Do you also want to leave?’ [and] Simon Peter answered him, ‘Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.’” (John 6:67-69). Yet when Jesus was vulnerable before the crowds, Peter was no longer standing behind his Lord. Where was Peter?
Often times, our own lives get shaken and we are put in difficult situations, where we too must affirm or deny Christ. We might fall short more than three times, but Christ never stops loving us, just as he never stopped loving Peter. It was Peter, who asked Jesus, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive him? As many as seven times?” and now it was time for Peter to personally receive the answer that Christ gave him, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times”. (Mt 18:21-22). No matter how often we have denied Christ, we are called to return to him, with our full hearts.
After Jesus rose from the dead, he appeared to the Apostles on the shore. Peter, who was fishing at the time, quite a distance away from Jesus, jumped into the sea, fully clothed and swam to him. He returned to the Lord with his full heart. He recognized that he could not live without his Lord, as there was nowhere else that he could go. Peter was our first pope and would taste death and suffering in his martyrdom for his faith. Christ models for us, that the victory will never be of this world, but rather it will be awaiting us in eternal life. Our remedy for sin is endurance in the faith. May we continue to run towards, not away, from the Cross- the true symbol of salvation.
Holy Thursday at Home
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The liturgical season of Lent comes to an end this Thursday with the the beginning of a new liturgical season, the Holy Triduum. This liturgical season, though short-comprising of three days (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday)- are some of the holiest days of the year. This season calls for red vestments.
On Holy Thursday, our Lord, Jesus, instituted both the Sacraments of the Eucharist and Holy Orders. He celebrated the first Mass with his disciples.
Elementary Aged Activities:
Apostle Popsicle Puppets and Template
Middle and High School Aged Students
A tradition on Holy Thursday is hosting a Seder meal to remember the Passover before the Cross. Because we do not want to send you out to shop and the limited supply in stores, a better and more feasible option during Covid-19 might be preparing a nice dinner with whatever is in the pantry and offering a Holy Thursday Table Blessing.
One of the best opportunities during this time would be to reflect on readings for the Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord’s Supper. Within the first reading, God gives to Moses the order for the Passover, which is to be celebrated year after year, in remembrance of their freedom from captivity. Prior to the exodus, there were nine plagues in Egypt; the tenth and final plague was the death of each firstborn son. Moses relayed to the Israelites the prescription for the spirit of death to “Pass-over” each house, which was to use the hyssop branch to spread the blood of the lamb on the sides of the door and over the doorpost. They were ordered to stay in the house until morning. (The Prince of Egypt would be a great family movie for the evening!)
The first Passover, was a meal celebrated in haste within each person’s own home. During this time with the Covid-19 situation, we have lost the sense of normalcy, much like the Israelites on the night of the first Passover. However we are given the opportunity to remember the gift of family. When we reflect on the Gospel passage, we recall the New Passover that Christ gives us within the Mass. The disciples present celebrated this Passover with Jesus, but this was certainly an atypical evening, which would have caught the disciples off guard. This is definitely a time of odd circumstances, where we are not able to spend the Holy Triduum together in the parish. However, the Lord is offering us a time to be faithful, despite the circumstances, with the same call to follow him. This night, Christ gave us the Sacrament of Sacraments, the Eucharist. He continues to give himself to us again and again.
Reflection on the Feet Washing:
As mentioned in the Elementary School Activities, the feet washing within the home, could be a great way to express the sacrificial love modeled by Christ.
Peter has to learn the lesson that God's idea of love, majesty, and greatness is different from ours. Peter initially recoils at the thought of Jesus washing the feet of the disciples. How could a King do such a thing? But Jesus teaches mankind a new type of radical love. Love that includes the complete emptying of oneself.
At the end of the washing of the feet, Jesus then tell the disciples that they too are called to love like this.
I can imagine, before the washing of the feet, there was a sense of pride inherent in the disciples. None of them would have ever considered doing something that was meant for only servants to do. Feet today are naturally dirty and smelly... and that is in the modern age where soap and showers exist. Imagine what washing feet back then must have been like. So none have them would have ever thought to clean someone else's feet. But then the man whom they love and follow and know to be the Incarnation of God stoops to wash their feet. It must have been shocking. And when Jesus finally tells them they they too must love like this, they were probably reluctant to agree but then thought, "well now I have no excuse". "If Jesus was willing to wash my feet, who do I think I am that I don't have to wash the feet of my fellow man?"
Jesus' message was not just meant for the 12 disciples, but for all us. He led by example and showed us what true love looks like. True love means getting rid of our sense of pride. And the opposite of pride, is humility. We are called to humbly give of ourselves. Because Jesus gave literally everything of himself. And who are we to think that we don't have to humble ourselves if God himself humbled himself?
Palm Sunday Home Celebration
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We are entering into the holiest week of the year, and throughout this week we will be giving resources for living the liturgy at home. Parish Holy Week information can be found here. Families can pick up blessed palms in the church Monday-Wednesday, 9am to 5pm. They will be spread out over several tables right as you enter the glass doors. Please observe social distancing. One person from each household can take a palm branch for each member of the household These are only for OLMC parishioners, as there is only enough for each parishioner.
Elementary Information:
Holy Week Tracker
How to Make a Palm Cross out of Paper
Hosanna Prayer Card for Prayer Card
Palm Coloring Page
Paper Palm Leaves (3-6 year olds)
Paper Palm Leaves (2nd-3rd)
Palm Paper Leaves (4th-5th)
Middle and High School:
Some parishes across the country practice the veiling of the statues and crucifixes within the parish. Each home can practice this through Holy Week by using purple cloth to gently cover the religious articles until Easter Sunday. By covering the images, we are called to the attention of this time of the liturgical year, and when we remove the coverings on Easter Sunday, we see in fullness what Christ has won for us on the Cross.
We are entered into Christ’s Passion on Palm Sunday, reminded that we too have a role to play in his death, but in his great love for us, Christ gives us a role to play in Salvation History. Below is a good video to help reveal what elements in our life need healing. An Examination of Conscience can help bring to light which sins we need to bring before the Lord before entering his glory at Easter. Consider going to the Sacrament of Reconciliation either this weekend (2-4 pm) or on Wednesday (2-4pm).
Family Stations of the Cross
/We have two Fridays before Easter, and though we might not have had the Fish Fry and Stations as a parish family, we are going to offer some stations you can pray as a family. Here is article on praying the stations at home.
For Families with Younger Children:
Station of the Cross Eggs Activity and Corresponding Stickers
Montessori Stations of the Cross Activity
Stations of the Cross Candles
Stations of the Cross Matching
Stations of the Cross for Children
For Older Kids and Parents:
The Way of the Cross by Ven. Fulton Sheen
Faith During the Coronavirus Situation
Faith in Action: Charity in the Family
/Charity within the Family
We have about 1.5 weeks until the conclusion of Lent. The Covid-19 situation definitely gave every person additional opportunities for self-denial and penance. Among the fasts and prayers, we still have opportunities for almsgiving. In the home, children are first taught charity. Either by sharing or doing something kind for a sibling, each child begins to practice loving others through service. The Church in her rich tradition teaches us the corporeal and spiritual works of mercy.
Though quarantine might have us cooped up inside, we can still practice social distancing and give alms through our time, treasure, and talent, serving the community as a family.
Feed the Hungry and Give Drink to the Thirsty: Are there any members in the community that are shut in because they are high risk? Can you order or purchase groceries for them and deliver them on their doorstep?
Caring for the Sick: Consider spiritual adoption of patients dying alone with the coronavirus. Write letters and cards for those who might be facing the illness alone. Are there any health care professionals in your family and/or neighborhood that you can support and encourage?
Comfort the Sorrowful: Is there anyone you know who is sick and lonely that could benefit from a phone call? Maybe a grandparent who is alone at home?
Prayers for Dead: Pray a Divine Mercy chaplet for those dying and those who have died this day, that they may see the face of God in heaven.
For Middle and High School Students and Parents to Reflect:
Here are some Bible verse reflection passages for the parent to meditate on with their kids. The central theme of these verses is that charity is not something that we boast about or do because we want to feel like better people. We do it because of our love for Jesus. If we truly love Jesus, then we just become naturally charitable. The main reason this lesson is important for kids today is because internet culture offers a lot of "opportunities" to do false charity. Things like: "Share this Facebook post to save the rain forest" Real charity requires some sort of action. Real charity is not done primarily for the whole world to see. Real charity has love as its primary motivator. Real charity makes us think about people other than ourselves. When we wear bracelets, when we make social media posts that are moral posturing and preaching, are we doing it to glorify ourselves, or God? I'm not saying you should never post moral issues on social media. Just be mindful of who you are glorifying. the answer to that question depends on you.
Matthew 6: 2
“When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward.”
We do not do charity for ourselves, but because it is right.
We do not help the poor for our own glory, but for God’s. Do not care what others are doing or thinking except to want for their salvation.
Matthew 26: 11
“The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me.”
Our duty is not to end poverty, just to help fellow man and love God.
Matthew 25: 40
“Amen I say to you, whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me.”
·If we truly love God, how could we possibly ignore those in need.
1 Corinthians 13: 3
"And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing."
This further emphasizes the idea we don't do charity to necessarily make ourselves feel good. Rather, feeling good about oneself should just be a byproduct for living according to Gods plan for you.
God does not care if charity is "done". He cares about our heart when we do it. So we could theoretically solve world peace, end hunger, and end sickness, but if we don't do it for the love and glory of God, it matters little for you.
This is why supporting capitalism or supporting socialism does not make a difference to your salvation. Both of these purport to solve hunger/disease/injustice in some way. But merely supporting the more prudent ideology is not charity, even if it turns out that your ideology actually fulfills what is claims to do. You still need to actually do charity with love in your heart. Supporting the ideal system is secondary. If you can't fix yourself first, what business do you have trying to save the world?
Praying a Family Rosary
/On Wednesday we celebrated the solemnity of the Annunciation, and we are reminded of the very first mystery of the Rosary, where Mary said her “Yes” to bearing the Son of God. When we reflect on the mysteries of the Rosary, we reflect on the life of Jesus Christ and the good news of our Salvation.
Fr. Anthony wrote a great blog reflection on the Rosary and he will be praying the Rosary live on the YouTube channel these following dates:
Friday, March 27 @11am: The Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary
Thursday, April 2 @11am: The Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary
Wednesday, April 8 @11am: The Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary
Elementary School:
How to Make a Rosary with Kids
Montessori Rosary
Montessori Rosary 2
Montessori Rosary Templates
Rosary Bingo
Rosary Booklet
Stickers for Rosary Booklet
Rosary Card
Virtual Rosary for Kids
Middle and High School
Basic template on how to pray the Rosary.
Praying a Scriptural Rosary allows for you to meditate more deeply on the mysteries you are praying, allowing for greater contemplation. Use the Scripture passage for each bead in the decade.
15 Promises of Our Lady to
Christians who Recite the Rosary:
1. Whoever shall faithfully serve me by the recitation of the rosary shall receive signal graces.
2. I promise my special protection and the greatest graces to all those who shall recite the rosary.
3. The rosary shall be a powerful armor against hell; it will destroy vice, decrease sin and defeat heresies.
4. It will cause virtue and good works to flourish; it will obtain for souls the abundant mercy of God; it will withdraw the hearts of men from the love of the world and its vanities and will lift them to the desire of eternal things. Oh, that souls would sanctify themselves by this means!
5. The soul which recommends itself to me by the recitation of the rosary shall not perish.
6. Whoever shall recite the rosary devoutly, applying himself to the consideration of its sacred mysteries, shall never be conquered by misfortune. God will not chastise him in His justice, he shall not perish by an unprovided death; if he be just, he shall remain in the grace of God and become worthy of eternal life.
7. Whoever shall have a true devotion for the rosary shall not die without the sacraments of the Church.
8. Those who are faithful to recite the rosary shall have during their life and at their death the light of God and the plenitude of His graces; at the moment of death, they shall participate in the merits of the saints in paradise.
9. I shall deliver from purgatory those who have been devoted to the rosary.
10. The faithful children of the rosary shall merit a high degree of glory in heaven.
11. You shall obtain all you ask of me by the recitation of the rosary.
12. All those who propagate the holy rosary shall be aided by me in their necessities.
13. I have obtained from my Divine Son that all the advocates of the rosary shall have for intercessors the entire celestial court during their life and at the hour of death.
14. All who recite the rosary are my sons, and brothers of my only son Jesus Christ.
15. Devotion to my rosary is a great sign of predestination.
Taking Time to Pray
/“Pray without ceasing.”- 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Now that we probably have abundance of time within our daily schedules, we are given the opportunity to take take some of it to instill prayer time into our everyday lives. How does this practically work within our families?
Throughout this week, we will give specific prayers to practice at home. Below are some general tips to pray each day with the whole family.
Elementary School:
Open Letter to Parents of 3-6 Years Old at Home
5 Ways to Pray with Kids
5 Ways to Wonder with Kids
CGS Prayer Podcast
Practical Life (CGS)
Cutting Practice with Kids (CGS)
Prayer Cards for Parents (CGS)
The Art Shelf (CGS)
Praying with Young Children
Our Father Word Search
Lord’s Prayer in American Sign Language
Family Worship Music Playlist
Middle School :
4 TYPES OF PRAYER
We are all called to pray to God. But in these times, it may be tempting to to only focus on one type of prayer: petition. There are 4 types of prayer.
1. ADORATION - Praising God
2. CONTRITION - Asking for forgiveness
3. PETITION - Asking for a favor
4. THANKSGIVING - Showing God gratitude
Of these, Adoration is the highest form of prayer. We should try to always include it at the beginning of every prayer.
For example: Dear God, you are truly good and all powerful. (adoration) therefore, we ask in these times that you take care of those that have fallen ill to the Coronavirus, especially for the elderly and those most susceptible (petition).
WHY DOES GOD REQUIRE US TO PRAISE HIM?
If God is truly all-powerful, omniscient, and loving; then why does he force us to worship Him? Is He some sort of narcissist? Why does he care if we, His creatures, praise him or not? How horrible to think that God would separate Himself from us (Hell) just because we didn't praise him enough.
OUR DUTY AND OUR SALVATION
We praise God because it is our duty.
The reason we worship God is the same reason parents teach their kids that they need to say "thank you" after receiving a gift. If the child does not say thank you, that does not reflect poorly on the gift giver, it reflects poorly on the child. A mother does not give her son food because she wants to hear him say thank you for her own pleasure. She would give him the food regardless of a thank you (because she loves her child). But she expects the child to say thank you, because it is right and just that he does so. To not say thank you would make him a rude, selfish, and conceited ingrate.
So it is with God. We praise and worship Him, not because it soothes his ego, but because for us to not do so would make us rude, selfish, and conceited ingrates. Considering everything that God has given us, it is only proper that we praise Him. It is right and just.
We praise God because it is our salvation
When we properly understand our place in the world that God has created us, then it is impossible for us to not pray.
We have been given many gifts by God: our free will, our lives, this earth, our intelligence, and more. Everything that we have belongs to God. Our wealth, our house, our children, our gifts. We owe everything to God. When we pray "always and everywhere", then it means that we recognize that we have done nothing ourselves. A person who prays constantly, then, is putting God at the center of their lives. And in doing so, they are living in faith, which leads to salvation.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Think about prayer being our duty and salvation the next time you watch or go to Mass. Listen for this call and response:
Priest: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
Congregation: It is right and just
Priest: It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God.”
High School:
Here are some Prayer Pointers, which are some of Fr. Anthony Saroki’s tips for daily prayer that we use in the discipleship groups for the high school students.
Time should not be the excuse for not praying; below Fr. Mike Schmitz has some steps from St. Francis de Sales on including God in our every moment.
We probably have a little more silence in our lives. This of course can be very uncomfortable when we are surrounded by noise. Practicing be silent definitely helps build a more attentive prayer life.
Celebrating the Solemnity of St. Joseph
/Happy Solemnity of St. Joseph!
While the Bible gives us few details about the life of St. Joseph, we do know that he was the husband to Mary, Jesus’ foster father, and a carpenter. He was a good man who cared deeply for Mary and Jesus and took his responsibility to do so very seriously. He is often portrayed in art pieces with lilies to represent his purity and holiness. Here are a few activities to help you reflect more on St. Joseph.
Elementary School Adaptation:
Lilly origami (with detailed instructions)
Middle School Adaptation:
Though the middle school students and families are not able celebrate at OLMC with the planned spaghetti meal, I do want to encourage your family to celebrate this great solemnity with a nice dinner at home. Traditionally the meal is Italian because of the Italians great devotion to St. Joseph, but that is up to you. Take some time during (or just following) dinner to reflect on the life of St. Joseph and what makes him a saint.
Things to meditate as a family: imagine that your wife is the Queen of Heaven and your son is the Son of God, this is the position St. Joseph found himself in. He was human, but lived a life of holiness. He was a saint through his faithfulness to God, his prudence in leading his family to safety, and his good stewardship as the head of the Holy Family. St. Joseph is the patron of the universal Church and models for us obedience to God’s Will for our salvation.
High School Adaptation:
What is the difference between a feast day and a solemnity? Check out the chart below to see some of the differences between solemnities, feasts, and memorials in the liturgical calendar. Today we celebrate the solemnity of St. Joseph. Though it is not a holy day of obligation in USA, we still are called to celebrate this day, glorifying God for the gift and life of St. Joseph to the Church. Solemnities even give us a break from our fasts during Lent, like Sundays (so enjoy that piece of chocolate today). Solemnities are the celebrations of greatest importance.
Though there are no recorded words in Scripture from St. Joseph, his life modeled true and complete faithfulness to God’s plan. St. Joseph had a role in raising our Savior, and he continues to have a role in protecting the Church through his holy intercession. Check out today’s saint reflection page to look at the life of St. Joseph and how we too can follow his example in obedience and holiness.
Also as a family, take some time to reflect on the Mass readings for today found here on the USCCB’s website.
St. Joseph, patron of the universal Church, pray for us!
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