For the Children

   Over the years I’ve found that most families have children who have left the Church.  Perhaps they’ve gone to other churches or they may have given up on God entirely.  Regardless the reason it’s common for the parents to feel as though they are at fault.  We failed them in some way.

   People seem to forget that faith is a gift of God.  Parents can’t give it to their children, only God can do that.  Parents can provide an example of faith and take them to Mass, but the children are the ones who will decide to accept or reject the gift of faith offered by our Lord.

   A priest I once knew addressed this situation in his homily.  His message was very clear; once the children are grown they are responsible for their own faith life.  It is not the parent’s fault.  The angst and heartache felt should be set aside and replaced with prayers for their soul.  St. Monica prayed for many years for the conversion of her son, St. Augustine.  Her prayers were finally answered.  We may never see the conversion of our sons and daughters but that doesn’t mean our prayers go unanswered.  God doesn’t operate on our timetable, but in His perfect time.

   Pray for the children, continue to be a good example of faith for them.  Most of all love them as God loves them.  Regardless of where they have been, God will always welcome them home.  And always remember, it’s not your fault.

Lord, we often feel we have failed our children.

Yet they are the ones who must accept You.

We turn to you in prayer for their souls.

Only You can give the gift of faith.

Help us to be an example of that faith.

Perhaps the children will notice.

We place them in Your loving care.

In Your mercy touch their hearts.

Lead them home to You.

Amen