I remember as a child my dad telling me that what mattered to him on my report card was getting a good grade in citizenship. That was more important to him than all my other grades. I don’t know if that is true in other families, but it does raise the question: How important is it to get good grades … Read More

I conclude this series of notes on leaving home by speaking to kids who go to College or pursue other endeavors. This is an important issue to address. Most people know how important it is to encourage college students to stay connected to church and to be part of an OCF group on campus. However, I would like to focus … Read More

One of the things that struck me last week when I talked about using the car, or taking trips away from home, is that what I suggested seemed so simple and easy. But what happens if older kids don’t abide by what is expected of them? What if they get arrested for driving under the influence or get in a … Read More

Use of the family car marks another area in life involving separation of older children from their parents. The issue of the car can involve many scenarios: Using it for an evening out with friends, or to drive to work. Taking a trip away from home for an overnight or longer. This may involve out of state travel. Older children … Read More

Another important away-from-home event for parents to address with their kids is when they go to their first overnight camp. This can often last for a whole week. Again, it seems as if most parents handle this well; but I offer my comments for those who might be seeking some assistance. I think the first thing a parent can do … Read More

There are a number of things that can lessen or increase anxiety as a child gets ready to go to school for the first time. The first that comes to mind is an overall atmosphere of stress in daily family life. This may result in an increased level of anxiety and distraction. Is there consistency in family routines? Do kids … Read More

There are various points in life when a child deals with being away from home. There is the first day of Pre-school or Kindergarten if you do not home school. There is the first time going to camp and being away for a week. There is a teenager’s first unsupervised drive away from home for an out-of-state visit. Finally, there … Read More

“…eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3) In the body it is the living Spirit that holds all members together, even when they are far apart. So it is here. The purpose for which the Spirit was given was to bring into unity all who remain separated by different ethnic and cultural … Read More

The following is from the December Newsletter from Archangel Michael in Broadview Hts. Thank you Fr. John 1st CORINTHIANS – CHAPTER 13, Rewritten for the Christmas Season If I decorate my house perfectly with lovely plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family, I’m just another decorator. If I slave … Read More

At the end of a recent Liturgy I had the privilege of listening to ten children aged 6 to 14 recite as a group the first two chapters of the Book of Galatians from memory. I was amazed at this. How did they do it? They did so by practice and repetition, and it had to be disciplined. You don’t … Read More