The Family Zone
SUMMER EDITION /Issue 13/JUNE 28, 2020
SUMMER JOURNEY OF FAITH
Get started with your summer journey by making a God's Eye to lead your way. You may remember God's eyes from summer camps of the seventies! They are making a comeback with our summer journey as we "See With God's Eyes" all summer long! You can watch a video, created by one of our diocesan families to be reminded of this timeless craft which hails originally from the indigenous peoples of Mexico. This video can be found on our YouTube Playlist by clicking on the button below! Each God's eye is made unique by the pattern and color of yarn you choose and can be a great reminder that not only is God watching over us but we are called to see the world through God's loving lens! Below you will also see the "Trip Planner" for the week that will give you a list of activities that coincide with this Sunday's scripture themes and a trail mix prayer to start you off with some physical and spiritual nourishment! The "homestyle" video of this week's science experiment was created by one of our diocesan families! It's great! Your family might be inspired to create your own video. If you do, please send it our way via the email in our bio at the end of the newsletter. ENJOY THE JOURNEY!
SUMMER WITH THE SAINTS
THIS WEEK'S VIRTUE CHALLENGE!
CHARITY
Pier Frassati lived charity in his very being. He showed his love for God through his service to his neighbor, so much so that there is a group named after him with a driving notion of service.
What Is It?
Love for God and neighbor.
Wishing God all honor and glory.
“the friendship of man for God” (Thomas Aquinas)
Charity combats the sin of Greed.
Live It Out!
- Read 1 Corinthians 13. A better translation is Charity is patient, charity is kind….
- Say and show your love for one person each day this week, and pray to God for them.
MASS CONNECTION
Before we receive Communion, there is an exchange of peace. Under “normal” conditions, the congregation exchanges a handshake, or even an embrace. Now, in order to maintain social distancing, the Sign of Peace is limited to a verbal exchange between the presider and congregation. But the symbolism is still there!
Before we move into receiving the Eucharist, we acknowledge and reconcile with those around us. We make an outward sign of God’s love before receiving him into our being. It is our way of showing that we are in community. It’s an act of love and charity, similar to what Pier Frassati was known for.
When you offer a sign of peace at Mass (in person or virtually) look them in the eye and speak heart to heart.
PRAY!
The video below is a beautiful meditation on the phrase "verso l'alto", a motto connected to Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati.
BREATHE!
Tip of the Week: MANAGE WHAT YOU CAN, RELEASE WHAT YOU CAN'T.....let go of your frustration over things you cannot control and focus on those things that you can.
A favorite "faith" phrase of ours is: LET GO, and LET GOD
COOK!
Need a Fourth of July treat for the campfire? Place a strawberry on a campfire stick. Dip the strawberry in a dollop of marshmallow cream and then a quick dip of blue sugar sprinkles. Hold your skewer over the flame and toast to your liking. Allow to cool slightly so you do not burn your tongue. ENJOY!
MOVE!
Run/Walk/Bike to a neighbor or family member's house and chalk them a driveway surprise note; walk around your town and pick up trash or offer to help a neighbor by walking their dog or mowing their lawn. You can make someone's day with even the smallest act of kindness!
CREATE!
Disappointed that Fourth of July fireworks aren't happening in your community? You can craft your own firework designs as part of your Fourth of July celebration: https://intheplayroom.co.uk/2014/11/03/fireworks-crafts/ And, it's much safer!!
Use one of your firework crafts as a note to your loved one with a phrase like "You light up my world" or "thanks for leaving a sparkle wherever you go!"
READ!
"Pass it On" By Sophy Henn is a story about passing positivity on to others! Spread the joy! It's short and sweet but filled with message. Watch the video of the story below!
FOR TEENS: "Follow: Your Lifelong Adventure with Jesus " by Katie Prejean McGrady. Katie Prejean McGrady is one of the most prominent youth speakers in our church today. She has a humorous, approachable style that helps young people and those who care about them connect to faith and Christ in practical ways!
Office of Evangelization and Catechesis
Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester
Debtor in PossessionEmail: oec@dor.org
Website: oec.dor.org
Location: Diocese of Rochester, Buffalo Road, Rochester, NY, USA
Phone: 585-328-3210
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dioceseofrochester/?ref=bookmarks