Posts by Kiara Pirola
Mother of Life
When an insignificant, barren hill in Mexico becomes the destination for 13 million pilgrims a year, something’s going on… December 12 is the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This is one of the most significant Marian apparitions in the Church’s history and some 13 million people make a pilgrimage to the Basilica in Mexico…
Read MoreFamily History
“When my baby sister was born with a life-threatening condition, my family became completely absorbed in supporting her for several months. As a four year old, the experience left me with a deep insecurity – I’ve discovered that my adult drive and competitiveness, which is often destructive, has its roots in this experience.“ We all…
Read MoreTalking about Sex
“Katrina wasn’t looking forward to the parent puberty information night hosted by the school. She had been fondled by a stranger when she was twelve and somehow that made everything to do with sex feel dirty.” “Matt was only seven when the neighour’s boys showed him some centrefolds. Fortunately, his dad was able to talk…
Read MoreNo-Sew Unity Banner
Try this fuss-free banner project with the kids. Hung over a prayer space, it is a great reminder to pray for Christian unity and unity in our own family. Materials 1 large piece of Fabric 50x70cm. eg. felt Scraps in various colours Wooden rod or curtain rail ~ 50cm length, 1 cm diameter. Glue- Spray…
Read MoreChanges
Isn’t it funny the way children have the uncanny ability to ask those awkward questions at the most inconvenient times? More than just Biology A sound formation in sexuality is a critical aspect of raising our children to adulthood and setting them up for success in their own relationships. Yet for many of us, the…
Read MorePrayer for Unity
Sometimes, the best thing we can do is pray about something! Make this simple prayer ritual a regular part of your family’s prayer life, and we can promise you, it will work wonders to increase the unity and peace in your family and in the wider community. Reader 1|Corinthians 1 12:12-13 For just as the…
Read MoreUnity People Chain
“That they may all be one…” Make unity a regular point in your family’s prayer life. This simple craft activity is not only a lot of fun for kids, but also provides ample opportunity to teach them about the importance of working towards unity in all aspects of their lives. Instructions Download and print the…
Read MoreResurrection Garden
This activity was inspired by Pinterest and based our instructions on this blog post from JOYfilled Family. A great gift alternative to the standard chocolate this little garden is a wonderful symbol of hope and joy for your family’s prayer space or garden. There are so many different ways of doing this, however, we kept…
Read MoreFamily Prayer Bookmarks
Marriage and family had a special place in the heart of our late Pope, John Paul II. Family life is not easy, a source of immense joy and also suffering and loss. John Paull II knew both, having lost his entire family to illness by the time he was 21. The pressures of modern life…
Read MoreBedtime Blessing
Blessing is an ancient practice and common element in almost all religions. Why not start a lovely new tradition in your family with this simple Trinitarian blessing for your children. It is a great way to settle restless children to sleep and a comforting ritual for kids who experience nightmares or have trouble sleeping. It…
Read MoreMeditating with Children
Children as young as five can learn to meditate silently for a minute or two at a time. It may help them to have a picture or a candle to look at, or to close their eyes as they use a short mantra such as “Come Lord Jesus” or “I love you Jesus.” This is…
Read MoreA Year of Grace
On Pentecost 2012 Australian Catholics begin a ‘Year of Grace’: a time for all to deepen our relationship with Jesus. In a courageous and humble statement, Australia’s bishops have committed themselves to a year-long journey of prayer and repentance. They will each direct their focus and energies on the person of Jesus, with particular emphasis…
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