Dear Parents and Guardians of our Parish's Middle and High School Teens,
Hello! I hope you all fared well during our recent freeze! This is the 9th issue of our Online Parent Ministry! I hope and pray that the OPM is useful for you! I encourage you to try one of the "Family Experiences!"
Each week, the OPM Emails include a theme, links to articles, conversation starters, videos, and much more to help you know more about your teen's world.
One permanent feature of our Online Parent Ministry is the "Family Experiences." Click on the link below and then click on whatever grade your teen is in this school year. You will find a few downloads including a page called "the Development Guide" that details all the physical, spiritual, and social changes your teen will experience at that particular age. It's full of good information! The other pages will help you plan that year's "Family Experience."
I hope the Online Parent Ministry blesses you and your family!
Dear Parents and Guardians,
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s really easy for families to get caught up in the busyness of the world. You have jobs, and your kids have school. At some level, you're even involved in their sports and extra-curricular activities - at least as a chauffeur to and from all of their activities! You have Mass on Sunday and other events to attend at church, and hopefully, you have a little time for fun and friends. In the midst of all of this, we often neglect the importance of slowing down and embracing a healthier pace of living. This week we continue last week's Online Parent Ministry theme of slowing down.
Now, of course, some seasons of life are busier than others, and some seasons offer the opportunity for a more relaxed pace. As followers of Jesus, we all probably know that God encourages us in His Word to prioritize our relationships and well-being over the constant demands of the world. In Psalm 46:10, the Lord urges us to “Be still, and know that I am God.” This verse serves as a reminder that in the slowing down and the stillness, we can find a deeper connection with God and with one another.
We all know that stress and anxiety plague our culture, and our teenagers feel these things in big ways. All of the things that comprise their busy lives and schedules just keep piling up, and they never have the opportunity to slow down, catch their breath, and rest. One of the things that gets lost in the shuffle of the busyness, is having conversations about our faith.
Your words hold the potential to inspire, guide, and strengthen your teens on their unique spiritual journeys. Embrace these conversations with openness and understanding. They may spark insights, create lasting memories, and deepen the bonds within your family. Remember, your influence matters profoundly. Take a moment today to share your beliefs, listen to theirs, and foster a home filled with faith, love, and understanding.
Check out this week's Online Parent Ministry Resource by clicking below - it will help you get started to have these important conversations. Have a blessed week! I hope you find this week's OPM email helpful for you and your teens!
Sunday Alive! is another resource that will help you and your family be more present and prepared to receive the message of the Mass! Read the readings before you come to Church, and take a look at the rest of the "Sunday Alive!" handout. It also contains the Saint of the Week, discussion questions for the family on the message of this Sunday's Gospel, and much more! Enjoy!
Please reach out if you ever have any questions, personal needs, or even suggestions for our Online Parent Ministry! I will send our usual weekly email on Thursday, Have a great week!
