The kids and I have been attending church (and by "attending" I mean, we've been twice and our record is 45 minutes). I've taken Theo to a UU church several times, but it's kind of far and while there is a lot I like about it, it wasn't the best fit. I grew up in the Catholic church and while I have MANY issues with the church and theology in general, I do enjoy the cultural and traditional aspects of Mass. I searched around and found a parish that could be the twin sister to the church I grew up in. I emailed with the family life director and found that they have a very supportive LGBT ministry and even participate in pride events. The email I received back was long, thoughtful and heartfelt. I felt like it would be ok to try it out.
This morning was our second go 'round. I don't feel good about leaving the kids in the nursery (Lucy wouldn't stay anyway) and I overestimated Theo's ability to sit still. So, the first time didn't last long at all. This time I got smart and brought the Leap Pad and earbuds. Worked like a charm. Lucy is really good and just watches and sings and talks quietly. We go to the 9:30 Mass which seems to be the one everyone brings their kids to. They both did great this morning.
This morning's homily (like a sermon to the non Catholics in the group) was all about including and honoring everyone, even those that are different. He somehow related this to the story of lepers in the bible, but I was distracted. Anyway, I was left with a feeling that we were wanted and included, just the way we are. Not something religion typically does a good job of. They also had a baby baptized this morning, which was so sweet to watch.
So, I think we will continue to try it out. It's in walking distance from the neighborhood we hope to move to next year. I want the sense of a church community for the kids as well as the grounding feeling tradition brings. So far, so good. I hope they don't disappoint me.
And to be honest, I enjoy having a reason to dress the kids up. This picture is baby girl this morning. That jumper is to die for and she hadn't worn it yet!
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Church.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
That sounds great! I hope you guys find this church to be a good "fit." We would like to find a church that didn't involve driving into town every Sunday...so that's pretty much been a bust. Ellie attends a Christian Preschool that has 2 different services every Sunday - but their beliefs are much too conservative for us. The UU church is C-ville has not impressed me (being overly inclusive, like "God, or whoever you belive in" or "pray, or whatever you do" - too many clauses, if that makes sense.) Anyway, I'd love to hear how your church journey goes!
ReplyDelete