Our church is a place where children and families are active participants in our parish life. 

Our tone, spaces and systems must be welcoming so that every generation can worship, serve, and experience the joy of being part of our community together.



Principles

Expect children to be present and welcomed

Respond with patience and practical support (not judgment)

Design ministries and spaces with families and safety in mind

Principles in Action

We speak positively about the presence of children and families in worship.

We respond with patience; we do not shame families for typical family noise or movement.

We offer help to overwhelmed caregivers rather than ignoring them.

We plan events assuming children will be present, welcomed and safe.

We communicate schedules, expectations and logistics clearly so families can participate.

We invite families into service and leadership—not just attendance.

We periodically review spaces and processes through lenses of family friendly, safety and security – and adjust where appropriate.

Reflection

Imagine arriving at Mass with a toddler, a baby and a child who isn’t having their best morning.

  • What messages do our words, actions and spaces send to young families?
  • What barriers might make parish participation difficult for families with small children?
  • Are families genuinely included in leadership and service?
  • How can we make our parish more welcoming without asking families to “fit” into existing structures?

Don’t ask families to prove they belong. Be the parish where they never have to question it.

Follow along as we dive deeper into the Holy Family Parish Renewal. Information will continue to be shared at mass, in the bulletin, and on our social media platforms: Facebook  |  Instagram