The school year is filled with a predictable rhythm. It’s easy to settle into a routine, even when families are balancing multiple children and a diversity of activities. When summer hits, things can get a little disjointed, especially when it comes to the practice of faith. The family is the first place children experience the love of God and formation in the Christian life. Vacation Bible School is a great place to for children to grow, but what about when the week is over?
- Take a Family Pilgrimage
Looking for a day trip with a little more meaning? The United States is filled with unique shrines, basilicas, and historic religious sites. Check out this Top Ten list or search sites by state. If the location is a bit of a drive, cross-reference the location with campgrounds or state parks to experience the beauty of God’s creation along with the beauty of the Catholic faith! - Make Mass a Priority
Every day in Catholic churches around the world, the same Mass is being celebrated. If you’re away from home on a Sunday, the Internet makes it easy to find a Mass near you. MassTimes.org has a helpful mapping feature. To ensure that the Mass times are accurate for the summer months, check out Parishes Online where you can find downloadable weekly bulletins. - Get Creative with Crafts
Pinterest is a gold mine for ideas about faith crafts and Catholic activities for kids. The next rainy day, don’t break out the iPad or start streaming Doc McStuffins or Daniel Tiger. Give the time indoors a deeper meaning for young children. - Serve Together
There are clothes that need sorting, community gardens that need tending, and meals to be served. Many nonprofits have tasks for all ages or specifically designate a “family day” with age-appropriate responsibilities. Grow in giving by volunteering for a local nonprofit as a family.
Though summer may be half gone, it’s not too late to inspire your family or your parishioners in faith!