With a new school year comes a slew of after-school activities and busier-than-usual schedules. Between running from school to soccer games and dance recitals, how can you make sure your family stays connected? While carving out another chunk of time may sound impossible, setting aside a time each day to pray and give thanks can have a positive impact on the outcome of your day and reconnect your family in faith. Read on to see how…
Morning Prayer
We know, mornings are rushed as it is. But dedicating a few early moments to pray will set the tone for the rest of your day. Before everyone jet sets out the door, take each other’s hands and gather in a circle. Have each family member contribute one thing they’d like to pray for that day—patience, understanding, confidence, even the strength to focus during a math test. Narrowing the focus to one day at a time can help keep your family from becoming overwhelmed and offer each person insight into what another is feeling.
Evening Reflection
After morning prayer, comes evening reflection. The importance of family dinners rings true as a way to connect with each other, but also as a symbol of faith. The table is an image that appears several times in the Bible—like in the instance of the Last Supper—representing the sacred ritual of breaking bread together and bringing people to a common ground. At home, gather around the dinner table to reflect on the happenings of the day, difficult moments you may have experienced and how to navigate and accept those situations in a more Christlike manner. Don’t forget to celebrate the positive things as well, it’s important to give thanks for gifts we’ve received.
Weekly Bible Exploration
This is a great exercise to do after Sunday service as we often leave Church feeling inspired and fulfilled. Each week, choose a story from the Bible and appoint a speaker to read it out loud. Then, take turns discussing what the parable teaches us and how it relates to an aspect in each family member’s life. This is a wonderful way to get children—and adults—to develop a deeper understanding of Christian teachings and closer connection to God within their own lives.
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