Silent Homilies
How little things can make a big difference
In families where religion is transmitted successfully, sacred objects are powerful. Statues of saints and the Blessed Mother, candles near photos of deceased members of the family, crucifixes on the wall, pictures of Jesus knocking at the door – all these can serve as silent homilies for children. These types of objects send a sacred message and serve as reminders of God’s continued presence in your life and home.
The cards below offer some practical suggestions for silent homilies in your own home.
Crucifix
Hanging a crucifix in a central place in your home and each bedroom can serve as a constant reminder that Christ has conquered sin and death for our eternal salvation. The crucifix can encourage children to learn about the significance of the Passion and Resurrection, which can lead to a deeper appreciation for their faith.
Statues of Saints
Having a statue of a saint or the Blessed Mother can remind your family of your belief in God and point everyone in the direction of Christ. The statues can encourage your children to ask questions about the followers of Christ and can remind your family that they are not alone on their journey to Heaven.
Sacred Art
Sacred art in the home makes it a “domestic church,” where your family can constantly praise God. Children are likely bombarded by hundreds, if not thousands, of media images every day or week. Religious art provides images of God’s peace and love, leading to prayer and quiet reflection. Christian images of beauty convey messages of faith without words.
Candles
Candles lit (or turned on) during prayer represent the eternal light of God. The light of a blessed candle symbolizes the light of Christ in the darkness of life; it is the symbol of holy illumination of the spirit of truth. The light from the candle can serve as an anchor while praying, helping your children stay focused and present.
Blessed Palms
Displaying blessed palms in your home makes you a witness to your belief in Jesus Christ as the Messiah and Son of God. While placing the palm branches at various locations, the parent can lead the family with the Sign of the Cross, stating: Hosanna in the highest! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Bible
Having one of more Bibles that are easy to find and access brings God’s living word into your home. The Bible reveals God’s salvation plan; to free us all from sin, starting in the Old Testament and fulfilled by Jesus Christ in the New Testament. For the emerging reader, God’s word of love can first be found in a children’s Bible.
Sacred Space
A home altar or sacred place is where one can take a moment to say a prayer, have a quiet thought, and remember departed loved ones. This space can include a crucifix, saint cards, candles, rosary beads, pictures, and small personal items of deceased family members. This practice can help children remember and pray for loved ones who have passed.
Holy Water Font
A holy water font can be near the entrance of your home or at another location. It serves as a reminder of baptism and our identity as children of God. Your family can bless themselves with holy water as they leave the home and upon their return, symbolizing purification and protection. This practice also encourages prayer and helps create a sacred atmosphere in your home.
Rosary Display
Having a rosary display at home can be a source of inspiration and encouragement for family members to pray the rosary regularly. It can be a focal point for prayer and reflection, inviting them to set aside time each day to meditate on the mysteries of Christ’s life. The rosary is a powerful prayer that helps the person meditate on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Liturgical Calendar
Having a liturgical calendar at home can help your family stay connected to the rhythm of the Church’s seasons and prepare for and celebrate the different feasts and solemnities of the saints throughout the year. The liturgical calendar follows the different seasons of the Church year, such as Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, and Ordinary Time, and also serves as a visual reminder of the rich traditions and teachings of the Catholic Church.
Advent Wreath & Nativity Scene
Having an Advent wreath and a nativity scene at your home can enhance the spiritual atmosphere during the Christmas season. The Advent wreath, with its four candles, helps to prepare for the coming of Christ, symbolizing hope, peace, joy, and love. The nativity scene can remind your family of the humble birth of Jesus and invites them to reflect on the mystery of the Incarnation. These traditions can deepen your family’s faith and help them focus on the true meaning of Christmas.
Lenten Calendar
The practice of using a calendar during Lent can be a helpful tool for spiritual growth. A Lenten calendar typically includes daily reflections, prayers, and small sacrifices to be made throughout the season. It serves as a reminder to focus on prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, and can help your family journey with Christ towards Easter. By following a Lenten calendar at home, your family can deepen their relationship with God and grow in holiness during the penitential season.