A HUGE OPPORTUNITY TO HELP
FAMILIES OWN THEIR FAITH
DURING THE CORONAVIRUS SHUTDOWN

PLUS
Sending Faith Home:
A Guide for Pastoral Leaders amidst the Coronavirus Shutdown

What Is Worship@Home?

It is an online resource to help families with children pray together at home while we are unable to gather for Sunday Mass. It is based on and inspired by Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest: Leader's Guide (promulgated by the U.S. Bishops) and the Directory for Masses with Children (from the Congregation for Divine Worship).

It gently coaches parents and their families through the age-appropriate prayer experience, and even makes it a little fun.

It is a HUGE opportunity to help families own their faith.

Wait, You Say This Is a Huge Opportunity?

It sure is! Think about it for a minute.

We're always talking about how parents are the first teachers of their children in faith, and then we lament that they don't act like it. Many have essentially delegated their job to catechists (and we let them do this). The result is that the faith is not "sticking," and younger generations are leaving the church. Study after study tells us that what makes the difference is the role parents play.

So here's the opportunity:

• Many families are cooped up in their homes, without much to do. They are bored. In some, kids are bouncing off the walls.
• Most cannot attend public Mass or any other church services or events.
• Families are anxious, confused, and worried. Most of us have an even greater need for prayer at this time.
• It's Lent, for heaven's sake!
• Many parents are not comfortable leading their families in prayer. They have not been equipped or coached well to do so.
• The best way to learn how to do something is to DO it (with a little coaching support).

What if the Holy Spirit could somehow use this mess we're in to teach families how to pray together and build up the domestic church?

But Shouldn't Families Watch Mass Online or On Television?

There is nothing wrong with people watching Mass remotely, and it is wonderful that the gift of technology makes this available. Some who are homebound watch Mass in this way regularly.

At this time (if your parish has the technical capabilities to live stream), this is a good way for a parish to remain connected and in solidarity and hear a common message. It's a particularly good option for an individual living alone.

And yet...

And yet, it is not an ideal option for everyone, especially families. Here's why...

READ MORE...

Thank you for all you are doing in this challenging time. Stay safe and be well!

Grace & peace,

—Paul & the Pastoral Center team

We're here to answer questions by phone or email, and we want to partner with you to coach your families. If you can't get through right away, please be patient and leave us a message. Call 1-844-727-8672 or reply to this email.

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