Posts by CathFamily
Praying 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…
Read MoreMilitary Chaplains Today
An interview with Fr Bryan Pipins SJ I had the priviledge of interviewing a current military chaplain Fr Bryan Pipins. His energy and love for his ministry was very apparent and the joy he took from it was truly inspiring. Kiara: To start with, could you give us a quick biography? Fr Bryan: I was…
Read MoreThe Mother Who Loves Me Chaplet of Prayer
The millions of pilgrims who travel to Medjugorje each year are a sign of the love that Mary has for all of her children. Mary is said to have appeared to six visionaries many times beginning in 1981. The Church has not officially approved the visions, but encourages pilgrims to visit what has become an important centre…
Read MoreEpiphany Prayer Service
A short and sweet prayer service that introduces children to the meaning of the wise men’s visit to Jesus. Materials Epiphany gift box and gifts (download instructions below) Candle CathFamily Epiphany Prayer Cards (download below) Instructions Light the candle and make the Sign of the Cross Read: The story of the wise men in Matthew…
Read MoreEpiphany Gift Box
Around Christmastime young children will be love making this gift box containing beautiful and fragrant materials representing the wise men’s gifts for Jesus; gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Then use the box in our Feast of the Epiphany prayer service in early January. We purchased some of these materials, but it will work just as well…
Read More2016 Nov | Accompany
From the Editor Marilyn Rodrigues In this edition we feature the testimonials and commentary of people who are walking with those whose life circumstances and choices make it difficult for them to feel that they belong in the Catholic family. Many same-sex attracted or gender questioning Catholics, for example, feel rejected by the Church rather…
Read MoreChrist the King Plaque
A fun craft activity for children and adults alike! Hot glue gun involved so younger ones will require some assistance. Materials Thick board/cardboard Pencil Hot glue gun PVA glue and paint brush Aluminium foil Permanent markers in various colours Printout of CathFamily Christ the King design template (optional) Approximate Time 30 minutes, depending on complexity…
Read MoreNature Art
We invite you and your children to join us in reflecting on Pope Francis’ message and on God’s stunning work of creation that is our family of humanity and our common home. Go out into the backyard or park with your child. To listen. To connect. To recognize God in the glory of creation. Materials…
Read MoreIn Union With Creation
Father, We praise you with all your creatures. They came forth from your all-powerful hand; they are yours, filled with your presence and your tender love. Praise be to you! Son of God, Jesus, through you all things were made. You were formed in the womb of Mary our Mother, you became part of this…
Read More