THE FAMILY ZONE
Equipping the Domestic Church/ISSUE 123/10.15.23
FRIDAY BEGINS THE New York State Eucharistic Congress!
On October 19 we will observe the Memorial of Saints John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues, Priests, and Companions, Martyrs who were martyred at the site of the Congress. To learn more about the New York Martyrs, click on the link below:
Mass Class
The background picture of the sky in this week's edition urges us to think of the Gloria we say at Mass: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace to people of good will."
The Gloria is an ancient hymn sung or prayed at Mass. There are three parts to the Gloria:
the praise of the angels at the birth of Christ, praise for God; our creator, and a request for Jesus' mercy. Historians say the Gloria was an ancient poem, but the author is unknown. As we pray it at Mass, we are adding our voice to the voice of the angels. Be sure to spend some time truly reflecting on your own praise of God so that you can raise your voice in confidence for all of God's good works in your life!
READ
SUNDAY READINGS:
This Week's Readings: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/101523.cfm
Click on the link below for the readings that you will hear at the Sunday Mass for the coming two weeks. This will give you a chance to prepare your heart and mind for full and active participation in the Mass:
Sunday Readings: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/102223.cfm
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/102923.cfm
FAMILY FAITH CONVERSATION: On October 22, the second reading is a letter from Paul in which he reminds those he writes to that he has been praying for them. It is a good time for us to remember those people in our lives that could use our prayers (those we know and those we do not). Perhaps at dinner, or at bedtime, your family can spend some time reflecting on who you might pray for in this particular time in the world. Have a conversation about reasons WHY we pray for others. You might even discuss what each of you would like to have prayers for in your own lives.
Connecting to Our Church Year
PRAY
Almighty God, whose beloved Son Jesus Christ, went about doing good, and healing all manner of illness and disease: continue, we beseech you, his gracious work among us especially in (Insert name). Grant to physicians, nurses and all health care professionals wisdom and skill, sympathy and patience; keep them safe and preserve them from all contagion. Cheer, heal and sanctify the sick, and send down your blessing on all who care for them healer, Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.
***You can also take the time to just add a prayer of intention at bedtime or dinnertime prayer....
God, thank you for Dr. Jones, who helped me with my broken arm
or Dear God, please be with all nurses who are working long shifts and caring for others...especially Aunt June!
SERVE
October is fire prevention month. Check with your local fire department to see if there is a way you can support their efforts. Especially if you are in a community with volunteer firefighters, they may have a role that needs some additional hands. Think outside the box..it might be helping them to take care of a need at the firehouse, it might be handing out fire prevention materials in your neighborhood, or maybe it would involve distributing smoke alarms to families in need; perhaps it is just preparing a treat and a thank you note for the way they watch out for all members of your community.
FAMILY MEAL
Milestone Moments and Family Traditions
Office of Evangelization and Catechesis
Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester
Debtor in PossessionEmail: oec@dor.org
Website: oec.dor.org
Location: Diocese of Rochester, Buffalo Road, Rochester, NY, USA
Phone: 585-328-3210