Catholic Activity: Family Excursions

Here are some suggestions for religious and cultural family outings.

DIRECTIONS

When you choose your destination for an outing, try to give your children an opportunity to visit places where Christian civilization first came to America. If there is a park or playground near the shrine you choose to visit, make a picnic out of the excursion.

It is a treat for children to visit a church other than the familiar parish church. Their understanding of the Blessed Sacrament is broadened if you explain that the same Lord Jesus is in this church as in every other Catholic church in the world. Point out the red lamp and remind them that it burns constantly to tell our Lord's devoted friends that He is waiting for their visit.

There are many classic religious paintings in museums. If you have a museum in your city, you may wish to roam the galleries to show your children the works of some of the old masters and of contemporary artists. Also familiarize your family with the liturgical music of the Church. If Vespers or Compline are sung in your parish church or one near you, attend as a family group frequently, and participate in this official evening prayer of the Church.

Activity Source: From Stroller to School, Parent-Educator Series 2, Leaflets 13-24, Three to Six Years by Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, 1962