As I race off to work each morning, I do my best to say proper goodbyes to each member of my family. My five-year-old son, Geoffrey, has named my daily morning ritual as a "Kiss, Cross, and a Hug."
I kiss each of my three children, bless them by tracing the cross on each of their foreheads, and give them each a hug. If I forget one part of this trio, Geoff gets very upset. In addition, he too must return these loving gestures, which is the most special part of the moment for me (he routinely changes the location of where he applies the cross--on an ear, an eye, etc.).
As I celebrate Father's Day this year, I am particularly blessed to know that my young children are beginning to understand daily Catholic moments. It is the greatest Father's Day gift I can receive. If they haven't done so already, invite your families to create their own "Kiss, Cross, and a Hug" moments. They will be so glad they did.
Dave Dziena, TCK editor. Email: ddziena@osv.com
Activity One: (Grades K-5): Father’s Day Bookmarks & other activities (PDF file)»
Activity Two (Grade 6 and up): Visit www.Pope2You.net, a new website from the Vatican, that aims to bring the words and messages of Benedict XVI to the youth.
Teacher Pattern: Pentecost Activity Sheet (PDF file)»
Soul Food for Teachers: Excerpt from "Leading Like Jesus"»
Catechist Know-How: From Mary Lou Rosien, "Happy Father's Day!"»
A response to last month’s question: “What resource would you love to have when working with children?”
"My son has played the "Gospel Champions" computer games, which involves the player in several Bible stories. He just turned six and when he hears one of the readings at Mass that he's played on the video game, he remembers the story and characters (submitted by John Elfering). Visit Third Day Games»
Please send your ideas and comments to me: ddziena@osv.com.
Catechists Companion: Tips for New Catechists by Leisa Anslinger. $2.95 for one or available in a package of 10 (S&H extra). More info here»
CPKH: Building Stronger Familes by Eileen Murphy. $2.95 for one or available in a package of 10 (S&H extra). More info here»
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Email Dave Dziena, TCK editor: ddziena@osv.com.
The summer edition of Take Out: Family Faith on the Go contains a handy Summer Family Bible Study. This easy-to-use section contains simple reflection questions for each Sunday readings for this summer. To order, or to inquire about a bulk subscription for your parish, please call 800-348-2440. To order an individual Take Out subscription, click here»
It’s Not Too Late... Order Discovery Canyon for this Summer’s Catholic Vacation Bible School
From the top names in Catholic publishing comes an all-new, Catholic VBS! Stop settling for less, and mark your calendars for the most enriching, rewarding, and faith-filled experience yet! For a video preview, click here»
God our Father, we give you thanks and praise for fathers young and old.
We pray for young fathers, newly embracing their vocations; May they find the courage and perseverance to balance work, family, and faith in joy and sacrifice.
We pray for our own fathers who have supported and challenged us; May they continue to lead in strong and gentle ways.
We remember fathers around the world whose children are lost or suffering May they know that the God of compassion walks with them in their sorrow.
We pray for men who are not fathers but still mentor and guide us with fatherly love and advice.
We remember fathers, grandfathers, and great-grandfathers who are no longer with us but who live forever in our memory and nourish us with their love. Amen.
From OSV's new prayer card for fathers. Order here»
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