Family Resources for the Year of Faith

Handing on the faith is a privileged and joyful task of parents, but it can seem daunting at times. That’s why the Year of Faith, which began Oct. 11, 2012, is such a blessing. During this time the whole Church focuses on nurturing the gift of faith we received at baptism. Dioceses and parishes have planned special activities, many designed for families. But there’s much that families can do, right in the home, to help members deepen their relationship with Christ. Below are a few suggestions to get started. Check back frequently, as more ideas will be added throughout the year.

Resources

Nurturing faith in the family through prayer, sacraments and catechesis:

Tips for keeping Sunday holy and family-oriented:

• Dies Domini
  John Paul II, On Keeping the Lord's Day Holy
  
• Jesus' Eager Desire: Our Participation in the Sunday Mass
  Cardinal Seán P. O’Malley, OFM Cap., Pastoral Letter, November 2011

Celebrating the sacramental life of the Church as a family:

• How to go to Confession: helpful information for each family member on the Sacrament of Penance
  
• How to take small children to Mass
• Suggestions on how to pray as a married couple

Prayers and Devotionals to learn and pray as a family:

• The Family Prayer for the Year of Faith
  
• The Rosary
• Prayers for special themes/occasions (e.g., Thanksgiving, Advent, etc.)
  
• Eucharistic Adoration - make a Holy Hour as a family, or offer up intentions for your family members in Adoration

• Ideas for building the family as "the domestic Church"
• Short excerpts from Church teaching for families during the Year of Faith