Everyone has seen that family at the front of the church. They come in with their van load of neatly pressed children who silently genuflect and take their seats, while the rest of those sitting around them sit awe struck that these children could be so well behaved and so devout all at the same time. There must be some secret behind it. Perhaps the parents threaten them in the parking lot, or maybe even bribe them! Actually, I'm going to tell you how it is done, and you will see, you CAN be that family...
It is so easy to look at this family and roll your eyes, but let me tell you this CAN happen for you if you so desire. Unfortunately In this day so many Catholics are being persecuted for their faith. It is important that the Children learn from a very young age how important their faith is, so they never let it go. Sometimes it's easier for us as parents to drop the children off at CCE class, at church, in order to give ourselves a little break. However, it is imperative that we make sure that they are learning what they need at their classes, and not just doing fun little door hangers and mobiles. The Catechism of The Catholic Church says "2223 Parents have the first responsibility for the education of their children" therefore it is our responsibility first and foremost to ensure that they are receiving their Catholic faith.
Now that you know they are getting the proper education, at home, or at church, prayer must become a very big part of your families life. Everyone should be saying prayers at every meal. If you do not know the " Bless us O Lord " then you should learn it. The rosary is also an amazing tool to becoming the family you want it to be. Say it AT LEAST once a week as a family and you will see a major change. Another Catholic prayer you can say with a rosary is the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.
If you are able to, attend daily mass once a week. When your children see that you are actually CHOOSING to go to mass, they will be intrigued. This sparks something in them. Mass one day a week is something we HAVE do. But if we go to daily mass, well, then we are saying, " I want to go, I want to be Christ, I need him, I am making this decision." Try to do this as often as you can. Confession is very important, and should be done at least once a month, in my opinion. The church says once a year, but would you take a bath once a year? Clean your soul! Teach them how important it is to you, and it will be important to them.
Finally, it is very important to bring your children to Eucharistic adoration. Show them how much it means to you. Let them know what it is. Yes, it is extremely confusing to them, that's understandable! It was to you at one time too! So what if they whisper too loud, or if they make too much noise! They deserve to be in the presence of Greatness too! After a while they will learn the proper behavior. Very soon that van load of devout Catholic children that walked in, well, that will be your family!
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