Dear Parents with young children in church,
You are really doing something important. I know it’s not easy. I see you with your arms over-flowing and you probably come to church already tired. Parenting is tiring!
I see you bounce and sway trying to keep the baby quiet. I see you with your toddler and your preschooler. I see you cringe when your little child asks an innocent question in a voice that might not be an inside voice, let alone a church voice.
I know you might wonder, is this worth it? Why do I bother? I know you often leave church more tired than when you came. But what you are doing is important.
When you are here, the church is full of joyful noise! When you are here, the Body of Christ is more present. When you are here, I believe that our pews won’t be empty in the years to come.
I know it’s hard but thank you for what you do when you bring your children to Mass. Please know that your family – with all its noise, struggles, commotion and joy are not simply tolerated. You are a vital part of our parish community and an example of commitment to parenthood and to Jesus Christ.
Thank you,
Deacon John