Developing Rituals

Celebrating family is of the utmost importance in our lives as Christians.  Developing traditions and family rituals in your own family can make a difference in the cohesiveness of the family.
 

The Liturgical Calendar

The Church Calendar is an easy way to develop traditions and rituals.  Is it May?  It’s time to adorn the blessed mother statue or picture in your home with a crown.  Is it the beginning of Lent?  It’s time to change the cloth adorning your home altar to purple.  Is it February 2^nd?  It’s time to read up on Candlemas and light the candles.  Is it January 6^th?  It’s time to make a King Cake to celebrate the feast of the three kings visiting the Christ Child.
 

Decorating as a Catholic

Remembering our faith and tradition at home is easy to do when we sprinkle Catholic art and décor throughout.  Several must-haves are a crucifix in the family room or living room.  In many homes, this crucifix doubles as a “sick set” that can be set up with candles and holy water by the bedside of an ill family member to prepare for the Anointing of the Sick. Many homes keep crucifixes in every bedroom.  Another must-have is an image of the Blessed Mother.  Some favorites are Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patroness of the Americas and the unborn, or Our Lady of Grace.  Many families also display an image of Jesus in the Divine Mercy Image, reminding us of the great Mercy of Christ and how we should also be merciful in our own families and lives.  
 

My Home Belongs to Christ

In ancient Roman tradition, people did not have addresses, so they would indicate who owned the home with a plaque above the door, known as a "titulus." Today, this practice has become extinct, in favor of numbered addresses, which are incredibly impersonal. However, Catholic homes will commonly post a crucifix above the doorway to indicate the primacy of Christ to the family. It means the residence belongs first to Christ, and his sacrifice is accepted by those who live within. It is also a reminder that Jesus is welcome in the home.