• September activities

  Archdiocese of Dubuque Family Prayer Resources Web Page September 8 - Birthday of the Blessed Virgin Mary Mary’s parents, Joachim and Ann, were very grateful for the gift of a child. They taught Mary to love and serve God. When we celebrate his mother’s birth, we honor Jesus, too! Today, on Mary’s birthday, celebrate with some fun activities, pray this prayer, and thank God for the gift of Mary’s life and your own call to do something very special with your life! September 12 - The Most Holy Name of Mary We honor Mary with many names, because she is the Mother of God. We receive many graces by calling on her intercession through many holy titles. Pray the "Hail Mary" as a family every day this month as the Church honors Mary. September 14 - Exaltation of the Holy Cross We come to the cross not only on Good Friday, but often, to see with the eyes of faith. The cross is a reminder of our salvation and a source of new life. As we gaze at Jesus on the crucifix, we can grow closer to him. Deepen your devotion to the Holy Cross. Pray the Way of the Cross as a family, and talk about and practice the Sign of the Cross. Enjoy a cross craft and other activities as a family. September 15 - Our Lady of Sorrows When we experience suffering, we have no better companion than Mary, who offers strength, comfort, and renewed faith even in our trials. She also experienced great suffering as the Mother of Jesus, and knows the pain of our wounded hearts. Learn about the Seven Dolors (or Sorrows) of Mary, and pray the Chaplet of the Seven Sorrows. Turn to Our Lady of Sorrows for love and strength to bear your crosses with patience and peace. September 21 – St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist St. Matthew wrote one of the four gospels. Although he was a tax collector, money was not important to Matthew. What was important was believing in and living as a follower of Jesus. Matthew helps us to remember that it is our faith in Jesus that makes us truly rich! Learn more here. September 29 – Ss. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels The three Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael are the only angels named in sacred scripture, and all three have important roles in the history of salvation. St. Michael is the protector. St. Gabriel is the messenger of good news. St. Raphael is the healing angel, and is also the patron of the Archdiocese of Dubuque. Learn more about the Archangels here.

• CELEBRATING CREATION Pope Francis has designated September 1 as World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. CatechismAngel.com offers The Creation Story in a Google slideshow to share with your little ones. Discuss the story: What does "creation" mean? Name the many things that God created. Why is creation good? How does the creation story show us that God loves us? Explain how God wants us to care for the things he has created. Talk about the ways we take care of God's people, animals, and nature. Include stewardship ideas in your conversation: pick up trash, use less water, recycle, turn off lights, etc. Finish with a prayer of thanksgiving for all of creation!