Custodians of Beauty

Fast or slow, high or low, saints are always on the go! This brightly colored book, "Saints on the Go", by Chantal Baros from Shining Light Dolls company, is filled with stories of the saints and their modes of transportation. Short rhymes retell the stories of thirteen saints. From horse drawn carriages and buckboard wagons to trolleys and steam engines, the saints sure did know how to get around! This book has a fun "easter egg"-- hidden on each page is an ichthus (Jesus fish symbol). Our kids try to race each other to be the first to find the fish. I was excited to see that this book included saints, such as St. Katharine Drexel, St. Maximillian Kolbe, and St. Josemaria Escriva who are written about less frequently in children's books. Also published by Shining Light Dolls, is the delightful board book, " The Virgin Mary Around the World ".  Just like " Saints on the Go ", this book is vibrant with color and explains our faith in a...

"O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I offer you my prayers, works, joys, and sufferings of this day. In union with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world. In reparation for my sins and for the intentions offered this month by our Holy Father." - Daily Offering Prayer My intention this lent was to bring our family closer to the cross, closer to the sufferings of Jesus through His Mother Mary. Last year, I made a Stations of the Cross for Toddlers . The girls loved having something to hold while we sat and prayed together. It kept their little hands busy and squiggly bodies occupied. Recognizing their fascination with the hands-on stations, I wanted to incorporate more visuals and tactile items this year. A crown of thorns, woven palms, nails, purple cloth; having these things around our home at little arms' reach helped our children reflect and meditate on the Passion of Our Lord.  Their young hearts were ready to learn and their love was pur...