5 Things My Pre-Schooler Taught Me About Mass
From the archive. This post was first published on the original Green Eggs and Moms blog and is kept here as it was.
Want to renew your love for the holy celebration? You can find inspiration right under your nose – quite literally.
Going to Sunday mass every week is something habitual. Like most things you do an auto-pilot, you tend to take the experience for granted, which causes it to lose its meaning.
If you want to rejuvenate your church going experience, look at it from a fresh perspective. More specifically, your child’s. This is what I’d like to share with you today, so here are…
5 Things My Pre-Schooler Taught Me About Mass
1. Church paintings and statues are fascinating
I go in and out of the church often that I have neglected to appreciate the beautiful artwork displayed all over. I learned this from my son – care of his wandering eyes. He once looked at every single painting that depicted the 14 stations of the cross. He was so engrossed that his mouth was open the entire time.
Next time you’re in the parish, take a few minutes to look at statues or any other religious artwork that’s in it before the mass begins. You might find inspiration in them.
2. “Peace Be With You” time is exciting
This is my son’s favorite part of the mass: when he can look at all of us and say peace while receiving a warm hug and kiss on the cheek. Although, he still refuses to say peace to other church goers because he doesn’t know them.
Be excited about offering a heart-felt “peace be with you” next time and you may experience the warmth of this simple act.
3. Putting money in the donation basket is fun
Ever since I let him put money in the basket, he’s always loved doing it. He may not understand his actions yet but the genuine joy in his face while doing something seemingly normal to us adults is touching.
Search yourself for why it is you give to the church. You might find the meaning uplifting.
4. Communion time is something to look forward to
I let my son march with me when I receive communion. Little did I know that it would leave him with a desire to want to receive the Holy Eucharist as well. He often asks me if he can eat the “white round thing”.
Like a child, God wants you to deeply desire receiving the body of Christ. Reflect on this next time you queue for communion.
5. Church pews are beautiful
Once, my son traced the cross carved on the side of the pew while we were lining up for communion. It was during that time when I noticed how beautiful and intricate the carving was. Had my son not seen it, I would never have appreciated the craftsmanship that went into creating the pews.
Take a quick peek at the end of the pews, what you find might surprise you.
What About You?
Observe your child while at mass next time to see what they find fascinating. It may lead you to appreciate simple things, which is God’s way of reminding you to find joy when celebrating mass.
Do you have anything to add to this list? Let me know be leaving a comment below.
Photo:Creative Commons from Mr. T in DC ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Are you part of our mailing list yet? Get free weekly updates by CLICKING HERE. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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