Sometime this afternoon take a little time to explain that the alleluias heard at today’s Masses are the last ones we will hear until Easter Vigil.  It’s an ancient custom to not sing or say the word again throughout all of Lent, thereby highlighting the somber sacrifices of Lent and the joys of the Resurrection.

This is one of the few activities that you’ll see repeated every year in Family Formation, through all three cycles, mostly because it’s such an effective lesson to kids.  It never fails that during Lent we’ll hear from parents whose kids are trying really hard to avoid the “A word.”  While this is definitely a fun game (especially for a family that reads the Psalms together, listens to Christian music, or is otherwise in the habit of joyful praise), it’s also an ongoing teachable moment throughout all of Lent.  It sets the tone for the season and makes us better pay attention during Mass.  It’s a little lesson in self-discipline, and trying to remember helps your family work together to grow in holiness.  All that in one little word!

So sometime before Ash Wednesday, be sure to tuck your Alleluia away in a safe place where you’ll be able to triumphantly retrieve it at Easter.  And while there’s still a little time, sing your favorite praise songs and read Psalm 150 loud and clear!

Hallelujah!  Praise God in his holy sanctuary, give praise in the mighty dome of heaven.  Give praise for his mighty deeds, praise him for his great majesty.  Give praise with blasts upon the horn, praise him with harp and lyre.  Give praise with tambourines and dance, praise him with flutes and strings.  Give praise with crashing cymbals, praise him with sounding cymbals.  Let everything that has breath give praise to the Lord!  Hallelujah!