Family of Faith IV – February 2021

Rich Maggi was our guest speaker this month.  As a parishioner and catechist, Rich led us through a reflection on the origin of prayer, beginning with the story of creation in the book of Genesis.  Of course we are reminded that God is eternal and existed before creation!  The most precious of all God’s creation is the human being, and we have great dignity because we are made in the image and likeness of God.

We are also reminded of the characteristics we possess that reflect that we are made in God’s image:  knowledge (intelligence), free will (ability to choose), and the ability to love and be loved.  We are made to live in relationship with others as a reflection of the loving relationship of the Trinity:  God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  We participate in the life of the Trinity when we pray through Jesus, remain “God-centered,” follow God’s will, and do his work.  Although temptation and sin entered the world, God has given us the Ten Commandments and the Beatitudes as a manual to guide our actions and live in happiness. 

Mary, the model disciple, is a sure guide to lead us to finding and following her Son. Mary’s yes to the Angel Gabriel is a testimony to her faith and trust in God.  In a very special way she brings our prayers to her Son and, therefore, is given the title of Mediatrix and our Mother!  Ultimately, prayer is a decision in whatever form it takes: vocal, meditative, or contemplative.  Mary, our Blessed Mother, encourages us to pray to develop and grow in relationship with God.

Family assignment for the month of February: 
February Parent Essay, Lesson 8 Parent Guide pages 300-302
February Parent Essay, Lesson 9 Parent Guide pages 303-305
February Fridge Page Parent Guide page 161
February Car Conversation Parent Guide page 163

To do at Home this month:

  1. Your Catholic Home, Month of the Holy Family, Parent Guide page 160.
  2. Suggested Activity Lesson 8: Activity 2, The Handmaid of the Lord, Parent Guide page 171-172; Activity Book page 97-98.
  3. Suggested Activity Lesson 9: Activity 6, Choosing to Pray, Parent Guide, page 194-195, Activity Book page 118-119.
  4. Prayer Board Activity, Parent Guide page 180; Activity Book page 107
  5. (Optional) Prayer Journal Activity, Parent Guide page 193; Activity Book page 182

February Additional Resources:
Video:  Andrea Bocelli – Ave Maria
Article:  Teach us to Pray – A Meditation on the Rosary
Video:  Alma Redemptoris Mater (solonell)

Coloring Activities:
Hail Mary, Full of Grace, Activity Book page 106
How to Pray the Rosary and Coloring, Activity Book page 100-103
St. Jean Vianney Activity Book page 117

Catechist’s Corner – February Lessons:
Fr. Francisco’s Adoration Lesson
Mrs. King, Hail Mary, Wedding at Cana
Mrs. Mahoney, Fruits of the Holy Spirit – Patience, Kindness, Goodness
Memorare Prayer
Mrs. Puorro, St. Mary and monthly activities

Saint of the Month:
St. Josephine Bakhita, Parent Guide page 162; Activity Book page 121

Reminders:
Saturday, February 20 – Penance Service, 3:00 p.m., Church
Sunday, March 7 – Family of Faith Zoom Session, 9:00 a.m.
Wednesday, March 10 – Family of Faith Zoom Session, 7:30 p.m.
Month of March – Independent Family Service

Links to Resources offered by our Guest Speakers:
Chris Godfrey, Life Athletes
Chris Godfrey, Redeemer Radio/Sandwich Generation
Sr. Laura Arvin, Mount St. Mary’s House of Prayer