“The family is…the domestic church. In it parents should, by their word and example, be the first preachers of the faith to their children.” (Lumen Gentium, 11)
Our Neophytes this week will be looking at their new roles as members of the Church. Discussion will focus more on the family and our sharing of faith or the “good news” as it’s called. The Catholic Church puts much emphasis on the importance of family life. In our role as parents we seek to be patient, good, compassionate and honest as we teach our children in the faith.
How can knowledge of our faith be added into a typically busy week? Suggestions for mealtimes: add reading of a Bible passage that can be discussed; light a candle while saying prayer intentions from each member of the family; share information on the saint-of-the-day; rotate who leads the blessing at the meal. At bedtime, read the Gospel of the day during prayer time; say a decade of the rosary - include one of the mysteries for the day. Celebrate baptism dates or confirmation-saint day.
Sometimes our actions are the teaching moment. Children learn how to forgive by watching parents and adults modeling the steps. We must show how to openly admit fault, offer an apology, and ask for forgiveness. This leads to a better understanding and openness to the sacrament of reconciliation.
When we give to charity - clothes, food and money, that also becomes a teaching moment.
Sharing the “Good News” is something we all do - whether we do it knowingly or unknowingly. Besides bringing our faith to immediate family members, by our words and actions we communicate it to people at work, where we shop, sports events and vacationing. Being Christian, that is, Christ-like, is being different. We are all called out - as Jesus called out the Apostles. Being helpful to people we encounter, saying “Hello” to people we don’t know, and assisting others when they need it - all show how Christ is in us. We are His hands and feet, His mouth and His heart. That makes sharing the “Good News” pretty easy. Ask the Holy Spirit, he’s there to assist you!
Our Neophytes lead the way - we can join their enthusiasm and say “Alleluia! Thank you, Jesus!”