Holiness at home - Creating a Catholic Culture

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Creating a Catholic Culture What does a Catholic home look like? How do we live our faith at home in day-to-day moments? Bishop Frank Caggiano has some practical suggestions in this video message. WATCH THE VIDEO VISIT THE WEBSITE     Let us assist you in your journey   SIGN UP Being a parent or grandparent is hard work. Young people today are growing up with more access to excess than older generations. Let us help you tackle the challenges with resources, helpful suggestions, and ways you can learn more about the faith you long to share with your family. Sign up for weekly newsletters and texts.     FEATURED ARTICLE Creating a Catholic culture at home Creating a Catholic culture at home can be fostered by influential practices within the family and home settings by fostering an environment that reflects and nurtures the Catholic faith. Making your home look Catholic involves incorporating religious symbols, artwork, and decor that reflect the Catholic faith. These types of objects and images are “silent homilies” that send a sacred message and serve as reminders of God’s continued presence in your life and home. Here are some suggestions: Crucifix or Cross: Display a crucifix or cross prominently in your home. This serves as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice and is a central symbol of the Catholic faith.   Images of Mary and the Saints: Place statues, icons, or images of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and your favorite saints in your home. These serve as reminders of their intercession and can inspire you to imitate their virtues.   Holy Water Font: Install a holy water font near the entrance of your home. This allows you to bless yourself with holy water as you enter and exit, symbolizing purification and protection.   Prayer Space or Home Altar: Create a designated area in your home for prayer and reflection. This can be a small table or shelf where you place a Bible, rosary, candles, and other religious items. Use this space for personal or family prayer.   Religious Artwork: Hang religious artwork or prints that depict scenes from the Bible, the life of Christ, or the saints. This can include paintings, prints, or even framed religious quotes.   Advent Wreath and Nativity Scene: During the Advent season, set up an Advent wreath with candles to mark the weeks leading up to Christmas. Additionally, display a Nativity scene to celebrate the birth of Jesus.   Catholic Books and Literature: Have a collection of Catholic books, including the Bible, catechism, and spiritual writings of saints. Display them on a bookshelf or coffee table for easy access and inspiration.   Rosary Display: Hang or place a rosary on a wall or in a decorative dish. This can serve as a visual reminder to pray the rosary regularly. Remember, the goal is not simply to have Catholic decorations, but to create an environment that fosters faith and reminds you of the presence of God. These visual reminders can help you and your family grow in your Catholic identity and deepen your relationship with God.             Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

HOLINESS AT HOME Witnessing Our Faith Begins At Home

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Become the First Witness You are Called to Be Witnessing Our Faith Begins At Home Parents are the first witnesses of the faith. What does that mean? How can parents witness faith effectively? Visit our website to listen to Bishop Frank Caggiano’s welcome message and learn more about what it means to be a witness of your faith – first! VISIT THE WEBSITE     FEATURED RESOURCE From the Field Real life applications of our faith in prayer and more… Keep an eye out for additional parenting resources and helpful content on a range of topics. One such resource is From the Field, where we can learn from musicians and ministers, confessors and counselors, parents and partners in ministry - all eager to share their thoughts and advice for how to improve our shared adventure of missionary discipleship.   CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE On Divine Mercy Sunday 2017, Bishop Frank Caggiano announced an exciting new movement – The Face of Prayer – an online crusade that brings together social media, text alerts, and the power of prayer. Now, nearly four years later, we are celebrating the eight million prayers that have been shared by subscribers.   JOIN THE MOVEMENT     LIVING YOUR FAITH AT HOME Understanding Suffering: Explaining Difficult Times to Children Explaining the concept of suffering to children can be challenging, as it involves discussing difficult and often complex topics. However, it is important to help children understand that suffering is a part of life and to provide them with a framework for navigating these experiences. In this article, we will explore a compassionate and age-appropriate approach to explaining suffering to children, drawing insights from the teachings of the Catholic Church. Acknowledge Feelings: Start by acknowledging and validating your child's feelings when they encounter suffering. Let them know that it is normal to feel sad, confused, or even angry when faced with difficult situations. Assure them that it is okay to express their emotions and that you are there to listen and support them.   God's Love and Compassion: Explain to your children that God loves them unconditionally, even in times of suffering. Emphasize that God is always present and cares deeply about their well-being. Help them understand that God is compassionate and walks with them through their pain, offering comfort and strength.   The Mystery of Suffering: Introduce the concept that suffering is a mystery, something that is difficult to understand fully. Explain that sometimes bad things happen, and we don't always know why. Assure them that it is okay to have questions and that seeking answers is a natural part of our faith journey.   Jesus' Suffering and Redemption: Teach children about Jesus' suffering and how it relates to their own experiences. Share the story of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, explaining that Jesus willingly endured suffering to bring about redemption and salvation. Help them understand that through their own sufferings, they can unite their pain with Jesus' sacrifice and find hope in His victory over sin and death.   Compassion and Helping Others: Encourage children to develop empathy and compassion towards others who are suffering. Teach them the importance of reaching out to those in need, showing kindness, and offering support. Engage in age-appropriate acts of service or charitable activities as a family, fostering a sense of solidarity and love for others.   Trusting in God's Plan: Reassure children that God has a plan for their lives even while suffering. Help them understand that although they may not understand why certain things happen, they can trust that God is always guiding them toward H is love and eternal salvation. Encourage them to have faith and to seek God's guidance and comfort in prayer. Explaining the concept of suffering to children requires sensitivity, compassion, and age-appropriate language. By acknowledging their feelings, emphasizing God's love and compassion, discussing the mystery of suffering, connecting their experiences to Jesus' sacrifice, nurturing empathy and compassion, and fostering trust in God's plan, we can help children navigate difficult times with faith, hope, and resilience. Through these conversations, we can instill in them a sense of God's presence and love, empowering them to find meaning, strength, and purpose even in the face of suffering.           Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

HOLINESS AT HOME First Catholic Culture - Rituals

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Catholic Culture Rituals Rituals can be seen as habits with meaning and purpose. Daily routines that include your faith can become sacred, such as Leaving the House and Coming Home. For other helpful suggestions on developing faith-filled habits and routines, see Rituals on the Catholic Culture page on First Witnesses. CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     FEATURED RESOURCE How to Pray With Kids A Guide to Catholic Children’s Prayers Figuring out how to pray with kids can sometimes be difficult.  However, instilling the habit of prayer into children at a young age can have a lifelong impact. The USCCB reminds us that “Parents are also the most effective catechists of prayer for their young children.” Visit the Hallow website for a few tips and resources to make this family time more manageable.   FIND OUT MORE     LIVING YOUR FAITH AT HOME Nurturing Love and Guidance for Children Parental blessings are a beautiful and meaningful way for parents to express their love, support, and guidance to their children. Through these blessings, parents invoke God’s grace upon their children, offering prayers for their well-being, protection, and spiritual growth. In this article, we will explore the significance of parental blessings and how they can strengthen the parent-child relationship, drawing insights from the teachings of the Catholic Church. CONTINUE READING         YOU MAY ALSO LIKE Learn from musicians and ministers, confessors and counselors, parents and partners in ministry - all eager to share their thoughts and advice for how to improve our shared adventure of missionary discipleship. The collection of From the Field Videos are real-life applications of our faith in prayer and more.   WATCH THE VIDEOS       Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

HOLINESS AT HOME FIRST catholic culture -Literature and Young People

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Catholic Culture Literature and Young People Literature can help parents teach their children about God’s presence. See all the Bible resources at the bottom of the page, i.e., Catholic Children's Bible. For other helpful ideas on your exploring faith through reading, see Literature and Young People on the Catholic Culture page on First Witnesses. CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     LIVING YOUR FAITH AT HOME Nurturing Faith and Wisdom: The Importance of Reading the Bible to Children In the journey of nurturing a child’s faith, reading the Bible holds immense significance. The Bible is not just a collection of stories but a sacred text that imparts wisdom, moral teachings, and a deeper understanding of God’s love. By introducing children to the Bible and reading it with them, we can lay a strong foundation for their spiritual growth. In this article, we will explore the importance of reading the Bible to children and the benefits it brings to their faith formation.   CONTINUE READING     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE Family Bible Challenge The Institute for Catholic Formation of the Diocese of Bridgeport is pleased to present the Family Bible Challenge. Now in its eighteenth season, the Family Bible Challenge continues to expand. We welcome the faithful of the Archdiocese of New York, Brooklyn, Dallas, Orange, Newark, Rochester, St. Augustine, and Springfield-Cape Girardeau to our adventure and hope you enjoy the weekly reflections and quizzes.   ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE The Bible Project is a nonprofit, crowdfunded organization that makes free resources like videos, podcasts, articles, and classes to help people experience the Bible in a way that is approachable and transformative. We do this by showcasing the literary art of the Scriptures and tracing key biblical themes from Genesis to Revelation.   CHECK IT OUT       Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

Holiness at home - Missionary Milestones

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Missionary Milestones What should my child know and when should he/she know it? Use this guide to determine what your child should generally understand about their Catholic faith at various age levels. Keep in mind that each child is unique, and therefore you must also consider your child’s mental, physical, and emotional growth as well as his or her age. If your child has special learning needs, you should use the age level which is appropriate for his or her cognitive ability.  All guidelines are sequential; see how the child's understanding of the Holy Spirit can develop across the different ages. CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     LIVING YOUR FAITH AT HOME Teaching your children about the Holy Spirit Parents play an important role in teaching their children about the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is one of the three persons of the Holy Trinity, along with God the Father and Jesus the Son. The Holy Spirit is often described as God’s presence with us, guiding and helping us in our lives. Here are some meaningful ways to encourage a growing awareness and understanding of the Holy Spirit in your children.   CONTINUE READING     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE What We Believe: The Nicene Creed "Our profession of faith begins with God, for God is the First and the Last, the beginning and the end of everything. The Credo begins with God the Father, for the Father is the first divine person of the Most Holy Trinity; our Creed begins with the creation of heaven and earth, for creation is the beginning and the foundation of all God's works." ---the Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 198 Catholic belief is succinctly expressed in the profession of faith or credo called the Nicene Creed:   LEARN THE CREED     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE Following Christ in the Holy Spirit: Discernment of the Holy Spirit Christians are called to be disciples of Jesus Christ. Discipleship begins with the encounter with Christ, when one decides to follow Jesus. Keeping the Ten Commandments comes later, as one encounters Christ and decides to do his will. This is a two-stage process of initial and ongoing conversion, of internal and external assent that may happen simultaneously as we mature as Christians.   READ MORE       Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

HOLINESS AT HOME - Catholic Culture- God and Art

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Catholic Culture God and Art Religious art provides images of God’s peace and love, leading to prayer and quiet reflection.  Christian images of beauty convey messages of faith without words.  Here’s how parents can use different forms of art to help their children learn about God’s presence in their lives. CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     LIVING YOUR FAITH AT HOME Explaining the images of God in the Bible When explaining the images of God in the Bible to children, it’s important to use language and examples that they can understand. Read more for some good suggestions.   CONTINUE READING     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE Welcoming Children with Sacred Art We welcome children to join a community inspired by sacred art through the Catholic liturgical seasons and feasts in a podcast series, “Way of Beauty.” Each podcast episode invites children with their parents, teachers and catechists to journey on the path of beauty with one masterpiece of sacred art related to the liturgical season, feast, signs, gestures and prayers. Each episode ends with discussion questions for children in family, parish and school communities to lead them to worship and prayer. The sacred art podcast is hosted by Dr. Jem Sullivan, associate professor, School of Theology and Religious Studies.   LISTEN TO THE PODCAST     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE Byzantine and Christian Virtual Museum The Byzantine and Christian Museum is implementing the project e-Byzantine and Christian Museum. This project allows the Museum to Upgrade its archaeological collections management system by utilizing modern digital applications   Develop a new, accessible digital archive which can be further enriched and provides valid information on Byzantine and post-Byzantine civilization   Refresh its communication and deepen its relations with many and diverse stakeholders, both specialist and non-specialist, as well as with the world public   Encourage learning through play, discussion and networking for all its visitors, young and old   TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR       Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

​HOLINESS AT HOME - Catholic Culture - Mealtime / The Eucharist at Mass

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Catholic Culture Mealtime / The Eucharist at Mass The central and most significant meal in the Catholic faith is the Eucharist or Holy Communion. During Mass, the bread and wine are consecrated and become the body and blood of Jesus Christ. Just as we need to eat food to give us energy and keep our bodies healthy, we also need Jesus, the living bread, to nourish our souls and keep our spiritual lives strong. When we receive the Eucharist, we are receiving the very life of Christ into our souls. It strengthens us, gives us grace, and helps us grow in our relationship with God. CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     LIVING YOUR FAITH AT HOME The Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist Jesus as the living bread is a concept that refers to the Eucharist, which is the sacrament in which Catholics believe that bread and wine are transformed into the body and blood of Jesus Christ. This belief is based on Jesus’ own words during the Last Supper when he said, “Take this, all of you, and eat of it, for this is my body” (Matthew 26:26; Mark 14:22; Luke 22:19; 1 Corinthians 11:23).   CONTINUE READING     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE 2024 Eucharistic Procession May 19 - June 4 As part of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, all are invited to join in our 2024 Eucharistic Procession in the Diocese of Bridgeport. It will be a 15-day event including multiple processions, special Masses, daily and overnight adoration, Eucharistic Stations, guest homilists and special events.   SEE THE SCHEDULE     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE The Shocking Reality of the Eucharist, by Fr. Mike Schmitz It's easy to fall into a routine and lose sight of the little miracles all around us. Unfortunately, it is even easy to fall into a routine and lose sight of the greatest miracle of all, happening right in front of us. Fr. Mike discusses the greatest gift God has ever given man: himself. Christ offered his body at the Last Supper, he sacrificed it on the Cross, and he continues to give himself to us at each and every Mass. Fr. Mike explains the shocking reality of what it means to eat Jesus' body and drink Jesus' blood. This flesh, the Incarnate Word of God, redeemed the world. His body and blood are what save our fallen human nature and they are what give us life. This miracle, occurring each time we go to Mass, gives us an opportunity to partake in redemption, unite with our Savior, and live a sacramental life.   WATCH NOW       Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

​HOLINESS AT HOME - Sacred Steps 1

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Sacred Steps 3-6 Years Model an example of concern, respect and service to others, especially the less fortunate. Model being the hands and feet of Jesus by engaging in service through the parish or community. Serve as a family, and discuss before, during and after that we serve others out of love for Christ and for our neighbor. 6-9 Years Participate as a family in service or social justice programs at school, in the parish or community. Give children opportunities to meet and appreciate people from other cultures, races, economic means and people with disabilities. For other helpful suggestions on developing faith at home, see Sacred Steps on First Witnesses. CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     LIVING YOUR FAITH AT HOME Teaching Children to Come to the Aid of Others Teaching children to come to the aid of others is a fundamental aspect of living out the teachings of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus tells us, “Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.” This powerful verse reminds us of our responsibility to help those in need and treat them with love and compassion. In this article, we will explore how parents can teach their children to come to the aid of others, drawing inspiration from Matthew 25:40 and the teachings of the Catholic Church.   CONTINUE READING     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE Catholic Charities of Fairfield County   Catholic Charities is one of the largest private family service agencies in Fairfield County. We serve the most vulnerable in our communities.   SEE HOW YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE Understanding Pope Francis’ theology of the poor Pope Francis declared his intention to stand in solidarity with people who are poor from the first moments of his papacy. Not only was he the first Jesuit pope, but his intention was revealed in his choice of a name, choosing the name of St. Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Franciscan order. Pope Francis told journalists the idea came to him in the conclave as the votes were still being counted. Cardinal Claudio Hummes, archbishop emeritus of Sao Paolo, Brazil, had embraced then-Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio of Buenos Aires when it became clear he would become pope, and reminded him not to forget the poor people of the world.   READ MORE       Sign up today for Holiness at Home SUBSCRIBE   Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

​HOLINESS AT HOME - SACRED STEPS 2

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Sacred Steps 3-6 Years Help children identify signs of God’s presence in nature and in their own life experiences. 6-9 Years Teach your children to respect human life and the environment.  Help your children identify ways they can use their personal talents to help other people and protect nature. For other helpful suggestions on developing faith at home, see Sacred Steps on First Witnesses. CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     LIVING YOUR FAITH AT HOME Being Good Stewards of the Earth and God’s Creation In the book of Genesis, God granted humankind “dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth,” (Gen 1:26-28). Pope Francis reminds us that “living our vocation to be protectors of God’s handiwork is essential to a life of virtue; it is not an optional or a secondary aspect of our Christian experience” (The encyclical letter, “Laudato Si’).   CONTINUE READING     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE   What can you do in your parishes, schools, and families to take up Pope Francis' challenge to care for creation?   SEE THE RESOURCES     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE When the Heavens and Earth Were Sacred: Recapturing a Sacramental Worldview As we continue our election cycle in the United States, there is a phrase I hear from time to time that always gives me a moment of pause: The Politics of the Environment.  This sentiment is often accompanied by numerous arguments, pro and con, about different legislative matters pertaining to ecology, both locally and nationally.  At one level, this question of environmental politics is understandable, given that ecology has become a “line in the sand” for candidates on both sides of the political isle.  However, from the perspective of a Catholic Priest, I always cringe when the environment is reduced to such rhetoric.  The reason for this discomfort is that Catholic theology views creation first through sacramental eyes before we focus on how this gift should be used (or not used) to build up human dignity.  This piece will explore the sacramental worldview of the Church in the hopes of giving clarity on how Catholicism views creation.   READ MORE       Sign up today for Holiness at Home SUBSCRIBE   Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

​HOLINESS AT HOME - SACRED STEPS 3

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Sacred Steps Discipleship from Birth to 6 Months Bless your child on the forehead every night. Ask God to bless him/her with a rest that is free of worry or fear. Choose child care options that are consistent with your personal and spiritual values. Take positive steps to resolve conflicts between you and your spouse which can have a negative impact on your child. Take immediate steps to remove your child from circumstances in which they are in danger of being emotionally or physically abused. For more helpful suggestions on raising disciples at home, see Sacred Steps on First Witnesses.   CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     SUMMER OF SAINTLINESS 7 Daily Ways to Become a Saint, One Choice at a Time - Week 2 Here are seven more ways to make willful decisions that can put you and your children on a path to saintliness.   DOWNLOAD THE PDF     WALKING WITH THE SAINTS   A quick and easy way to learn more about the Saints Catholic Concepts presents Walking With the Saints - a daily podcast sharing stories of the saints. Join us every day as we dive into short but compelling stories of the saints who walked before us. Listen to this week's saint stories: St. Thomas   Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati   St. Anthony Zaccaria   St. Maria Goretti   Bl. Emmanuel Ruiz and Companions   LISTEN TO ALL EPISODES             Sign up today for Holiness at Home SUBSCRIBE   Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

​HOLINESS AT HOME - SACRED STEPS 4

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Sacred Steps Discipleship from Birth to 6 Months ​​​​​​​Continued from last week... Display and explain signs and symbols of faith such as statues, pictures. Invite your child’s Godparents to be part of your child’s life by including them in celebrations and encouraging them in the building up of faith in your family. Welcome other members of your parish into your family, connecting your child with others who are actively living their faith. This will create a fabric that will help your child to remain connected to his or her faith. For more helpful suggestions on raising disciples at home, see Sacred Steps on First Witnesses.   CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     SUMMER OF SAINTLINESS 7 Daily Ways to Become a Saint, One Choice at a Time - Week 3 Here are seven more ways to make willful decisions that can put you and your children on a path to saintliness.   DOWNLOAD THE PDF     WALKING WITH THE SAINTS   A quick and easy way to learn more about the Saints Catholic Concepts presents Walking With the Saints - a daily podcast sharing stories of the saints. Join us every day as we dive into short but compelling stories of the saints who walked before us. Listen to this week's saint stories: St. Bonaventure   St. Kateri Tekakwitha   St. Henry   St. Veronica Giuliani   St. Augustine Zhao Rong and Companions   St. Gregory Grassi and Companions   LISTEN TO ALL EPISODES             Sign up today for Holiness at Home SUBSCRIBE   Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

​HOLINESS AT HOME - SACRED STEPS 5

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Sacred Steps Discipleship from 6 to 24 Months 1. Encourage your child to express himself or herself with music, song, arts, crafts and play. 2. Provide a good balance between structured and free play. 3. Use simple prayers at meals and bedtime; invite your child to participate when they are able. 4. Use religious symbols and objects (candles, pictures, statues, etc.) in family prayer and celebrations; explain these to your child to the extent that they are able to understand. 5. Use simple blessings or prayers for special family occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. 6. Establish family rituals to celebrate religious seasons and events like Advent and Christmas, Lent and Easter, feast days and holy days. 7. Adapt or develop family customs and traditions which express religious faith and values. 8. Establish a routine for your personal prayer, study and spiritual growth as an individual and/or as a couple. 9. Read scripture as a family and discuss it together   For more helpful suggestions on raising disciples at home, see Sacred Steps on First Witnesses.   CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     SUMMER OF SAINTLINESS 7 Daily Ways to Become a Saint, One Choice at a Time - Week 4 Here are seven more ways to make willful decisions that can put you and your children on a path to saintliness.   DOWNLOAD THE PDF     WALKING WITH THE SAINTS   A quick and easy way to learn more about the Saints Catholic Concepts presents Walking With the Saints - a daily podcast sharing stories of the saints. Join us every day as we dive into short but compelling stories of the saints who walked before us. Listen to this week's saint stories: St. Mary Magdalene   St. Lawrence of Brindisi   St. Apollinaris   St. Mary MacKillop   St. Camillus de Lellis   St. Francis Solano   Our Lady of Mount Carmel   LISTEN TO ALL EPISODES             Sign up today for Holiness at Home SUBSCRIBE   Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

HOLINESS AT Home -Baptism Stories

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Stories Stories that include a child or family member’s journey of faith can provide examples of how everyone’s relationship with Christ can be ever-growing and lifelong. Baptism Stories Children who were baptized as infants or at a very young age will have no recollection of the Sacramental event. Parents, grandparents, godparents, and even older siblings can share details about the very special day with the younger child. Who was there, how and why were the godparents chosen, what did the child wear, and how significant was the day for the family?   CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     LIVING YOUR FAITH AT HOME The Kind Stranger Once in a peaceful village, there lived a boy named Samuel who couldn’t hear or speak. Although Samuel was a bright and joyful child, he often felt lonely because he couldn’t talk with his friends or hear their laughter. The other children in the village tried to include Samuel in their games, but it was hard for them to communicate with him, so Samuel spent a lot of time by himself. CONTINUE READING DOWNLOAD THE ARTICLE     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE   Family Connection Gospel Reading: Mark 7:31-37 In today’s reading, Jesus heals a man who was deaf and had a speech impediment. This is a story about Jesus’ healing power, and in it we find clues about our understanding of sacrament.   EXPLORE THE GOSPEL READING     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE   The Virgin Mary Around the World by Chantal Baros Journey around the world with the Virgin Mary (and Holy Spirit, can you find him on each page?)! A beautiful new children's book from Shining Light Dolls, this perfect blend of faith and fun is sure to become everyone's new favorite!   LEARN MORE AND GET THE BOOK             Sign up today for Holiness at Home SUBSCRIBE   Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

HOLINESS AT Home - Stories

No images? Click here   Holiness at Home     Stories Stories that include a child or family member’s journey of faith can provide examples of how everyone’s relationship with Christ can be ever-growing and lifelong. Our Family Traditions Family traditions provide a sense of continuity and belonging. Traditions in holidays, birthdays, celebrations, family gatherings, and even weekly or monthly routines can convey what is central to the family’s identity and beliefs. Family traditions can also influence the transmission of the Catholic faith from one generation to the next. Behind every family tradition, there is a story about its origin, its purpose, and how it has evolved over the years. Sharing these stories can strengthen these traditions. CHECK OUT THE RESOURCES     LIVING YOUR FAITH AT HOME The Treasure That Lasts Once there was a boy named Oliver, who lived in a big, beautiful house. He had all the toys he could ever want—remote-controlled cars, building blocks, video games, and more. Every day, Oliver played with his toys, but something inside him felt empty. He wondered if there was something more important than having all these things. One day, while Oliver was out on a walk, he met an older man who always seemed happy, no matter what. Curious, Oliver asked, “Why are you always so joyful? Is it because you have many things?” CONTINUE READING DOWNLOAD THE ARTICLE     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE   This Week's Liturgy Readings: Wisdom 7:7-11; Hebrews 4:12-13; Mark 10:17-30 Sometimes we hesitate to seek the things of God because it might mean we have to lose the things of earth. But when we seek God and God's kingdom first, everything else of true value will follow.   EXPLORE THE READINGS     YOU MAY ALSO LIKE   Building the Family Cookbook by Suzanne Fowler Mealtime is quite possibly the most important time a family can spend together, as it offers the opportunity to reinforce the Faith in your kids. This unique cookbook not only has delicious recipes, but also provides many interesting facts and stories to strengthen your family's faith!   LEARN MORE AND GET THE BOOK             Sign up today for Holiness at Home SUBSCRIBE   Diocese of Bridgeport 238 Jewett Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06606 You are receiving this email because you signed up for The Institute for Catholic Formation mailing list.  Preferences  |  Unsubscribe

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