PIER – HOW TO USE (FAMILIES)
IDEAL SET UP
It’s best to have a set time or a scheduled time until it happens regularly. It’s also best to have a set place that is quiet and free from distractions.
STEPS & INSTRUCTIONS
- The Gospel from the daily Mass should be read aloud by a parent (or proficient reader).
- A specified phrase from the Gospel should be repeated aloud a few times (by a parent).
- A reflection geared for families should be read aloud (by a parent).
- A specified portion of the Rosary should aloud together while family reflects on Gospel.
The amount of time a family prays should be based on age of children. (i.e. – A family with very young children might pray: 1 Our Father, 3 Hail Mary, 1 Glory Be.) After prayer, children might want to share about their reflection. Encourage this often!
HELPFUL HINTS
This type of prayer takes practice! It might be hard at the beginning. Keep at it! Once you are comfortable with this, feel free to use your own solid Catholic reflections. Parents shouldn’t expect more than their children are capable of. Adjust to ages/needs. (i.e. – sitting still might be nearly impossible for very young children.) For younger children, it is helpful to have something for them to hold or look at – if possible, some object that has to do with the prayer. It is also helpful to clarify to them what is happening in the Gospel.
The family and all of its members benefit from doing this kind of family prayer. Parents become the first teachers of prayer. Children (and adults) learn to listen to God through the Scriptures. The family together learns and practices Christian meditation (“mental prayer”), familiarizes itself with Christ through the Gospels, opens itself to a deeper level of spiritual discussion, and establishes a priceless habit of family prayer.