The Family Ministry at Our Lady is dedicated to fostering holy families emulating the model of the Holy Family of Nazareth. Our mission is to promote family prayer, nurture young leaders, and create a culture of faith-filled families within our community.
During the school year, we host a monthly Rosary and Pizza potluck on the third Friday of each month (parishioners of all ages are welcome). Additionally, there are family-friendly service opportunities twice a year (in the fall and spring).
When discussing the need for evangelization, we often overlook the importance of evangelizing our own children. It’s easy for parents to forget that our daily lives and struggles should be offered to our Heavenly Father for the salvation of our children. The Church teaches us that parents are the primary educators of their children. Therefore, a crucial aspect of evangelization is supporting parents in that vital role, as they strengthen their own faith and pass along the Faith to their children.
We encourage families to engage in regular prayer together at home. Witnessing their parents in reverent prayer impacts children profoundly. With our words and actions, we teach children a deep respect for God.
We seek to increase hospitality to young families attending Mass, by creating a private space for nursing mothers (the deacon’s sacristy) a lending library of books for young children, and a diaper station. Our hope is that young families will feel warmly welcomed to our community when they see that we have prepared for them to join us in worship.
We mentor young leaders and help develop leadership skills. Older children serve as role models for younger siblings and peers. Especially during our communal prayer time, we encourage children to model reverence and we provide the opportunity for them to hone their public speaking and prayer leadership abilities.
We seek to build community. Not only do parents need the support of other parents “in the trenches” but we need the support and encouragement of grandparents, couples without children, and single individuals as well. Members of the wider parish community in all walks of life are encouraged to join in with Family Ministry events.
By supporting and strengthening families, we believe that we are building a stronger parish community. Holy families are the foundation of our Church. They play a vital role in fostering vocations and passing on the faith to future generations. Through our Family Ministry, we strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment where all families can thrive and grow closer to Christ.