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The Corporal Works of Mercy are acts of love that address the physical and material needs of others. The Corporal Works of Mercy are:
The Spiritual Works of Mercy address the needs of peoples’ minds, hearts, and souls. The Spiritual Works of Mercy are:
At first it may seem like one more task to check off the list, but by faith, we know that prayer is not just another task. Prayer is the breath of the soul. If we don't pray, our souls are suffocating! But with busy lives, how are we supposed to "fit" prayer into our already hectic lives? To keep prayer from feeling like just another thing to do, below are some helpful resources to make "getting into prayer" easy for you and your family.
FOR FAMILIES:
Loyola Press Family Resources
CathFamily - Resource library for raising children in the Catholic Faith
Strong Catholic Family - resources and activities for Catholic families
The Catholic Toolbox - ideas, inspiration and resources for catechists and parents
Teaching Catholic Kids from Our Sunday Visitor
August 15 - Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
This is a holy day of obligation, so don’t forget to go to Mass! Learn more by watching this animated story about the Assumption. Check out these resources, and celebrate this solemnity with your family!
August 22 - Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Mary is crowned as the Queen of Heaven. Watch this video from Bishop Barron. Learn more about the Queenship of Mary from EWTN. (Scroll all the way down the page!) Celebrate with a fun paper doll craft! Enjoy an art project, or craft to celebrate this special day!
August 24 - St. Bartholomew, Apostle
St. Bartholomew, also known as Nathaniel, was one of Jesus’ twelve apostles. He is remembered for his missionary work, spreading the teachings of Jesus, and for his willingness to die for his faith. Enjoy a coloring page, watch this video about his life, and learn more here.
August 29 - The Passion of St. John the Baptist
St. John the Baptist spoke the truth with great courage, even in the face of death. The Passion (or martyrdom) of St. John the Baptist is one of the very oldest liturgical feasts on the Church's calendar. Click here to learn why we honor the martyrdom of St. John the Baptist.
September 8 - Birthday of the Blessed Virgin MaryMary’s parents, Joachim and Ann, were very grateful for the gift of a child. They taught Mary to love and serve God. When we celebrate his mother’s birth, we honor Jesus, too! Today, on Mary’s birthday, celebrate with some fun activities, pray this prayer, and thank God for the gift of Mary’s life and your own call to do something very special with your life!
September 12 - The Most Holy Name of Mary
We honor Mary with many names, because she is the Mother of God. We receive many graces by calling on her intercession through many holy titles. Pray the "Hail Mary" as a family every day this month as the Church honors Mary.
September 14 - Exaltation of the Holy CrossWe come to the cross not only on Good Friday, but often, to see with the eyes of faith. The cross is a reminder of our salvation and a source of new life. As we gaze at Jesus on the crucifix, we can grow closer to him. Deepen your devotion to the Holy Cross. Pray the Way of the Cross as a family, and talk about and practice the Sign of the Cross. Enjoy a cross craft and other activities as a family.
September 15 - Our Lady of Sorrows
When we experience suffering, we have no better companion than Mary, who offers strength, comfort, and renewed faith even in our trials. She also experienced great suffering as the Mother of Jesus, and knows the pain of our wounded hearts. Learn about the Seven Dolors (or Sorrows) of Mary, and pray the Chaplet of the Seven Sorrows. Turn to Our Lady of Sorrows for love and strength to bear your crosses with patience and peace.
September 21 – St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist
St. Matthew wrote one of the four gospels. Although he was a tax collector, money was not important to Matthew. What was important was believing in and living as a follower of Jesus. Matthew helps us to remember that it is our faith in Jesus that makes us truly rich! Learn more here.September 29 – Ss. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels
The three Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael are the only angels named in sacred scripture, and all three have important roles in the history of salvation. St. Michael is the protector. St. Gabriel is the messenger of good news. St. Raphael is the healing angel, and is also the patron of the Archdiocese of Dubuque. Learn more about the Archangels here.