There was no question about Sunday Mass when my generation of young Catholics was growing up! Of course, we had the support of our parents, the encouragement of the Sisters of St. Joseph who taught in our school and religious formation program, and the Catholic culture that was prevalent at that time. It was something that we were expected to do, yet I do not remember being forced to do it. We attended Sunday mass willingly, but we did know that it was a serious offense against God to miss Sunday Mass. Having a “children’s Mass” created an atmosphere that spoke loudly and clearly: this is where you belonged on any Sunday morning.
While the Catholic Culture was beginning to dissipate in the 1960’s, there was simultaneously an attempt to stimulate interest in the idea of families (parents and their children) attending Mass together. In theory, it is a terrific idea, but, in practice, it has not worked out that well. Some parents lost their way, and some actually gave up the practice of their faith. And the children were never introduced properly to the concept of worshipping as a family. An exception is definitely seen in the midwestern and southern sections of our country where family worship seems to have taken root. It’s a great joy to see many families with children of all ages, including teenagers, entering a church together. I have noticed this practice when I visit my family in Florida. Why there and not here in New York? That is a tough question.
This, however, we know for sure: research shows that parents play a decisive role in children’s religious future. A recent study suggests the most influential ministry is at the family dinner table, bedtime prayers, and the everyday witness of a home centered in Christ. A joint study recently conducted by the Institute for Family Studies and Communio showed that parental practice of the faith is the strongest prediction of whether children remain Christians as adults.
Other studies of this type show that when both parents attend Mass regularly, 72% of the children remain Christian (and faithful to God) as adults. That drops to 55% if just Dad attends, 15% if just Mom attends, or 6% if neither attends.
For Catholics, these findings reflect what the church has always taught: parents are the primary educators of their children in the ways of the faith. Parents are called not only to teach the religious truths of the faith but also to demonstrate a life of discipleship through daily prayer, sacramental participation, and Christian witness.
The study referenced above concludes, “in a culture where religion is no longer reinforced by broader society, parents cannot assume faith will simply rub off on their children.” Instead, faith is most effectively passed on when it is lived openly, discussed regularly, and woven into the fabric of everyday life. Parents, don’t underestimate your influence. Bring your children to Mass each Sunday. You won’t regret it, and neither will they.
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