Children do listen, it’s important for us to talk with them

By Father Ricky Ordonez, Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church 

"The harvest is large, but the laborers are few." 

Earlier this month, I invoked this passage from the Gospel of Mark to try and reach our flock during school Mass at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School in Tucson. For at least one family, I know that it worked because the children’s mother contacted me and told me so. I often wonder if they listen. Now, at least, I know that some of them do. 
 
For us to “reap a good harvest,” there is a lot for us adults to do, but we need to work together. Religion is not just a knowledge of Jesus Christ; it should be a relationship with him. How do we do it? Through prayer. Publicly and privately. And let our children see it. 
 
We can’t just send our children to Catholic school or drop them off at catechism and expect that it be enough. As adults, we must all do our part. Our school teaches religion as a subject. It is then up to the teachers, parents, and their environment to bring them to that relationship with God by proper witnessing. We need to bring our children to experience Jesus Christ vicariously through how we live our own lives. 
 
Children need to witness their parents being Catholic. If we want our children to have a relationship with God, we better have one with him ourselves. After communion, while the school children are kneeling, I tell them to close their eyes and I try to guide them through prayer. I tell them to pray for their parents, siblings, grandparents, and even pets. I remind them about our brave servicemen and women, I tell them to thank God for our freedom. I try to connect with the children. My hope is that they’ll always turn to God in times of joy and when they need his guidance and mercy. You as a parent, grandparent, godparent, aunt, uncle, or teacher can do the same. 
 
Families, please talk with your children. Teach them strong morals and values so they understand the importance of loving one another. If we want our children to pray, they should see their parents pray. If we want to see our children become generous, they must see it in us: what we do, how we do it.  
 
The Lenten season is a great time to get started or add to what you are already doing. Families, attend Mass together every Sunday. Register at your parish. Volunteer when you can. Pray before meals, on the ride to school, and before bedtime. Do these things together, and soon you will see how God takes on a larger role in your life. Let your children witness his presence in your family. I promise children are listening and watching.