Posts by CathFamily
Advent Joy for kids
Here are some simple ways to bring Advent joy to children while helping them to learn about, and personalise, some of our rich faith traditions. Advent Calendars There are some beautiful religious calendars that can be purchased through Christian book shops – avoid the commercialised chocolate versions that feature toys and reindeers. Mary, Mary… If…
Read More5 Fast facts about advent
 When does advent begin and end? Advent begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. The first Sunday of Advent is the start of each new Church year. What is it for? The word ‘Advent’ comes from the Latin word adventus, which means ‘coming’ or ‘visit’. During this time we connect with the…
Read MoreBreakThrough the Reasons for Those Arguments
Couples often notice when arguments arise they are typically the same arguments that have occurred before, just set on repeat! Why is that? Conflict and hurt feelings are normal aspects of married life but what isn’t normal, or at least need not be so, is remaining gridlocked in stale and unhelpful patterns of relating. And…
Read MoreMary Mackillop Prayer
Ever-generous God, You inspired St Mary MacKillop to live her life faithful to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and constant in bringing hope and encouragement to those who were disheartened, lonely, or needy. With confidence in your generous providence and joining with St Mary MacKillop, we ask that you grant our request….(name your request). We…
Read MoreWhy Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio chose to be pope Francis?
When elected pope in March 2013 Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Archbishop of Buenos Aires, chose Francis as his papal name in honour of St Francis of Assisi. He is the first ever Pope Francis. Pope Francis explained that he had done so in solidarity with the world’s poor. He explained that, as soon as it…
Read MorePriests as spiritual fathers
The Church has always seen priests as spiritual fathers, called to spiritually nourish their people with the Sacraments and inspire new generations of men and women to follow Jesus faithfully in every sphere of life. They are also called to be joyful models of self-giving love as celibates dedicated to God and the Church. In…
Read MoreThe man village
Where a child’s own father is struggling or absent through separation, extensive work commitments, prolonged illness, death or some other circumstance it’s even more important for families to have a support network which includes good father figures. And besides, even the most dedicated father can lack interest or skill in an area where his child…
Read MoreThe Ultimate Guide To Family Prayer For Busy Parents
Every family is unique and their family prayer life will be too! What works for one family would be impossible for another. Whether it’s highly structured like the Rosary or Divine Office or less formal like meditation or spontaneous prayer, there is a style to suit every family as it grows and changes. Whether your…
Read MorePraying with Younger and Older Kids
Praying with younger kids Toddlerhood is a demanding and often frantic time. It can be tempting to delay introducing regular prayer, but as chaotic as it may be, younger children are more receptive to new traditions. Keep it Short A wiggly three year old will have trouble sitting still for an entire Rosary, so don’t…
Read MoreSimplicity Marriage
By Francine & Byron Pirola A funny thing happens as relationships travel along. At the beginning, the other person is such a novelty that we barely need other activities to keep us entertained and engaged. A simple picnic or a movie at home is the excuse to just waste time in each other’s presence. Before…
Read MoreNatural Simplicity
by Kiara Pirola When do people most commonly feel God’s presence? It is rarely at a desk or in front of a screen. Most often, we have profound spiritual experiences when immersed in the natural world. It is through God’s creation that we connect with the transcendent and we regain the capacity to be humble…
Read MoreSimplicity Parenting
In today’s busy life with too many choices and too little time, more and more children present with anxiety disorders, behavioural problems and an alarming rate of suicidal tendencies. Parents are often overwhelmed by their daily routine and there seems to be a profound disconnect between parent and child. As parents, we try to do…
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