Technically, Triduum spans three days—from the evening of Holy Thursday until the evening of Easter Sunday—but liturgically, it is “one day,” one long celebration of the Paschal Mystery. Triduum culminates in the Easter Vigil, which is the high point of the entire liturgical year. As with the Sunday liturgy, reviewing what will happen at the liturgy in advance is a good way to help your kids participate with understanding and reverence. Online, you’ll find lists to review and give your kids a heads up before going to church—and challenge them to notice each item during the service.
5 Lent fasts that benefit God’s creation
Catholic dad Ryan Langr writes: What to give up for Lent is one of the hardest decisions I have to make all year (yes, I’m spoiled). One of the reasons I fret so much about it is that I wonder how meaningful or how difficult the penance would actually be. While a Lenten penance is really only required to change your heart, having something that can affect others or the world is a definite bonus (and often much harder). One of my biggest concerns lately has been global warming and the state of our environment, and indeed Pope Francis thinks this is a huge issue as well. So we recycle, drive fuel-efficient cars, and try not to use so much heat or AC. So this Lent, if you want some extreme fasting and penance with an eco-friendly bonus, check out the following five suggestions about what to give up for Lent. They may be hard, but they’re to change your heart . . . and model care for God’s creation for your kids! You’ll find ideas online.
Praying the Stations of the Cross with your kids
Praying the Stations of the Cross with your kids is a great way to introduce them to the story of Jesus’ Passion, the paschal mystery, and the rhythm of Triduum. Here are a few kid-friendly ways to try it.
Give up nagging your kids for Lent
Do your kids ignore you until you raise your voice? Do you find yourself exhausted by constant nagging? This Lent, give up nagging your kids by focusing on the 4 Cs: Connect, cue, communicate and consequences. Find explanations for all these, plus a bonus fifth “c,” online.
Fasting for Lent: 11 ideas for what kids & teens can give up
Fasting and abstinence are the practice of giving up something good (for example, eating meat or watching television) in order to turn away from sin and draw closer to God. […]