This week, we’re going to continue our study of the Holy Mass using the lesson and the My Holy Mass booklet, and I just want to add a couple things:

This is the ideal time to point out some differences in what we are experiencing now – these vary from diocese to diocese, but you are probably not shaking hands at the Sign of Peace, you are probably receiving Communion on the tongue, and are probably not receiving the Precious Blood from a chalice. Whatever your current experience is, it’s important to remind your kids that Jesus is truly there and we need to reverently keep our eyes fixed on Him!

And think about your personal devotions associated with receiving the Eucharist. Do you have a particular way you prepare your heart to receive? Do you have a particular way to pray after receiving? This is a perfect time to share your personal devotion with your kids, so take advantage of this teachable moment.

Also, once your kids have finished going through their My Holy Mass Book, encourage them to use it at Mass, whether at home or on site. Older kids can keep track through the words and younger ones can do it by looking at the pictures – either way, keeping track of what’s going on in the liturgy by using a missal like this can be a very effective way to keep your focus.