Family Prayer Night - (at YOUR home?)

The young people were the ones to name these nights: "Rosary Parties".
A group of families from around Andover, Massachusettes gather at one home, the children run around outside for awhile, they come in, share a meal, then gather for a time of prayer. Children lead the prayer. We had a great time on this particular night and I had to take this picture to share with all of you.

Mary and I have wanted to instigate evenings like this since we lived in our old neighborhood. Wish we had acted on that impulse back then...

A few months ago in Arizona a friend said she felt like we were supposed to help invite families to gather monthly for evenings of prayer. We agreed and have been praying about it more intensely ever since. How about you? Does your family pray together?

I know, I know, we catholics are great at "Bless us O Lord..." but beyond that, does your family PRAY together?

Some nights we pray for only a few moments. Some nights we pray a 'tricade' rosary. A priest friend told us when you have small children to just pray three Hail Mary's for each mystery. Almost each time we pray, we embark on amazing discussions about faith, philosophy, morals - of course this is at a 2, 8, and 12 year old levels - but we love those talks. If we never took the time - we would never have time to share about these things.

You let us know if and when you are ready to begin praying as a family - we're here to help! We will begin providing ideas and suggestions as well as actual prayers to kick-start this quiet miracle in your home. We also want to begin asking families to consider hosting an evening for other families in your home or parish. Let's say, once a month for thirty minutes at first, then see how it grows.

First suggestion: Tonight just before dinner, (Guess that means some families will have to start having dinner together! The first miracle!) light a small or tall candle, set it in the middle of the table (turn OFF the TV) turn down the lights, turn off cell phones - no texting teens! Take turns saying one thing you are thankful for... or print out a short verse from the Bible and have the youngest reader read it. Then continue on with the "Bless us O Lord..."

There. Probably a five minute 'delay' in your lives - but something that small can be the start of something new and sacred in your home.

Those of you out there who already do this - share what different ways YOU have found to pray.