Our Local Church Family
Opening Prayer
Lord Jesus,
Thank You for our parish.
Help us love our local church.
Teach us to serve and pray
as members of this family.
Amen.
Part One
A Church Close to Home
The Church is worldwide.
It includes people
from every country and culture.
But we do not experience the whole world at once.
We belong to a parish.
A parish is our local church family.
It is the community
where we gather for Mass,
receive the sacraments,
and grow in faith together.
The Bible says:
“They continued steadfastly in the teaching of the apostles,
and in the communication of the breaking of bread,
and in prayers.”
This is what a parish does.
It teaches.
It celebrates the Eucharist.
It prays.
Scripture
“They continued steadfastly … in the breaking of bread,
and in prayers.”
(Acts 2:42)
Think and Discuss
What happens in a parish?
Why do you think we gather in one place regularly?
How is a parish like a family?
What would be missing if we did not have a parish?
Allow thoughtful answers.
Part Two
More Than a Building
A parish is not only a building.
It is the people.
Children.
Parents.
Grandparents.
Priests.
Religious.
Volunteers.
Some people serve quietly.
Some teach.
Some sing.
Some help the poor.
Some care for the church building.
Each person has a role.
The parish is where we learn to live the faith together.
We support one another.
We pray for the sick.
We celebrate baptisms and weddings.
We mourn and pray at funerals.
The parish is where the Christian life becomes visible.
Guidance for Adults
Help children see real examples of service in the parish.
Involvement forms belonging more deeply than explanation.
Part Three
Our Responsibility
Belonging to a parish
also means responsibility.
We do not only receive.
We also give.
We can give:
Our prayer.
Our time.
Our kindness.
Our help.
Even children can contribute.
By listening at Mass.
By behaving reverently.
By being welcoming.
By praying for others.
The parish is strengthened
when each member does their part.
The Church is not something “other people” run.
It is our family in Christ.
When we love our parish,
we are loving the Church.
And when we serve our parish,
we are serving Christ.
Quiet Reflection
Sit quietly for a moment.
Think about your parish church.
Imagine the people who gather there.
Now say quietly:
“Lord, help me serve my parish.”
Remain in silence together.
Practise This Week
Choose one:
• Pray for someone in your parish.
• Help with a small task at church.
• Thank your parish priest.
• Invite someone to come to Mass.
Choose one and keep it steady.
Optional Response
Choose one:
Memory
Repeat slowly:
“The breaking of bread, and prayers.”
Say it three times thoughtfully.
Action
Place your hand over your heart and say:
“This is my church family.”
Closing Prayer
Lord,
Thank You for our parish.
Help us grow in unity and service.
May our local church
reflect Your love
to the world.
Amen.
St. Mary's, St. John Bosco and St. Edward's 