Dear Families,
Today’s Gospel reminds us that the Church is built on the foundation of faith in Jesus Christ. Peter announces the core of our faith, that Jesus is God’s only Son. The family, as the domestic church, has this same faith as its foundation.
As you gather together as a family, talk about people whose faith has helped you to be a member of the Church and talk about what you have learned from leaders in our Church today. Read together today’s Gospel, Matthew 16:13 20. Talk about what you know about Peter and his importance to the early Christian community. Talk about what we can learn from Peter and his profession of faith about Jesus. Conclude in prayer together by praying today’s Psalm or an Act of Faith.
Family Fun-Memorial Stones – Create a memorial stone for a loved one who has passed. You may place it at their headstone in the cemetery or even in a special place in a garden bed at your home. There are several ways to create your stone. DIY kits can be purchased at craft stores. Alternatively, you can purchase wood discs or find large flat stones. Write a message or paint a picture on the surface that reminds you of Jesus’ love for us. You can use paint pens or Sharpies. Consider decorating a terracotta pot as an alternate option. When done, it’s best to spray it with a clear acrylic sealer to protect it from the sun and weather.
The month of November is dedicated to the Poor Souls in Purgatory. Consider praying for the souls in Purgatory with the prayer of St. Gertrude:
Eternal Father, I offer Thee the Most Precious Blood of Thy Divine Son, Jesus, in union with the masses said throughout the world today, for all the holy souls in purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the universal church, those in my own home and within my family. Amen.
Plan to spend a few moments in prayer by your Memorial Stone offering a special prayer for your loved one, such as this prayer: Eternal Rest, grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Partners in Faith,
Phyllis Chudzinski
November 19 – Class 5:30-7
November 26 – NO CLASS