Home Church

Our kids are not perfect in church. Sometimes they get squirmy, fight over Bibles, turn around and stare at the people behind them, attempt to use the kneeler as a launch pad for various gymnastics, or burst into song when everyone else in church is silent. But very often they are interested and engaged in the liturgy, and even when it looks like all they're doing is distracting everyone within four pews, it's amazing how much they take in. You might wonder how I know, but that's easy; everything they hear (and not just at church) is processed and reborn in some form at home.

A quick repeat story for those of you who aren't on facebook:

It's the fate of every boy who grows up with older sisters: dress-up time. But Michael Jr responded with a rather clever scheme for combating the potential indignity: he looked down at this snow white dress and declared it a "Jesus robe." Clothed in his Jesus robe, he reigned over play time with omnipotence all morning. If anyone questions his authority, he pats his dress and reminds them, "Michael Jesus." I imagine before long, Catherine will be consulting her catechism for an appropriate rebuttal.

(Actually, I think the real reason Michael calls this a "Jesus robe" is because the only male he's ever seen wearing something that resembles a dress is a priest wearing a chasuble. And he calls all priests "Jesus", so naturally, this is a "Jesus robe.")

Michael fits right in in his Jesus robe because Catherine and Mary like to hold mass at home, which first requires the construction of an altar:

Do you see the red blocks sitting on top of the three candles? Those are flames. That's how you know those candles are lit.

Once they have a proper altar they get dressed up and lead the choir.

Catherine is actually reading the words to a song on a page of music. She can pretty much read anything now.

Also, don't forget Gussie is going to be baptized (at real church) next Sunday the 30th. We are having an open house party at our place that afternoon from 2 to 5, and you are most certainly invited. If you want to come to the actual baptism, just give me a call and I'll give you the details of our church/baptism/lunch/soccer game schedule that morning!