Schooled
Although we have our problems, the education system in the United States is ‘above average’. There are differing opinions on how to fix the problems. And fixing is a challenge because one size does not fit all. We all have such different skills and talents. Having one teacher to ten, or twenty, or thirty students indicates that the teacher will not be able to give specialized instruction to each student. The Church recognized this early on and declared that parents are the best teachers. And they are but having six other siblings I am not sure my parents could get enough time for everyone.
In a unique way, God has a plan for this. He wants you to be schooled in the faith. That means the parents are the best teachers, but it takes a community to raise a child. We all need to be involved. Especially grandparents! With parents so busy it often falls on you to be the teachers of the prayers, how to genuflect, and make the sign of the cross. Admittedly nothing too tough. A little later in life maybe the godparents need to become more involved. Helping at mass, maybe religious education, or having that ministry of presence – your example speaks volumes. Another honor is being a sponsor for confirmation. This gets into the nitty gritty of who is God, what should I believe, or where is my faith for me now. Yes, it really takes a community.
The last line of the first reading for today sums it up best: “However, take care and be earnestly on your guard not to forget the things which your own eyes have seen, nor let them slip from your memory as long as you live, but teach them to your children and to your children’s children.” Pray for your children and your children’s children.
May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen