Donuts After Mass

"Remain in me, as I remain in you.

Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine,

so, neither can you unless you remain in me."(John 15:4)

The central focus of the Mass is, of course, the Eucharistic, where we gratefully receive the presence of Christ and all of the graces He bestows on us as we go about our work and play. Scripture readings provide important teachings and lessons, and the priest’s homily helps us understand the relevance in today’s world. One homily, given a number of years ago by a visiting priest still resonates strongly in my memory, not because of the theological content, but because of the practical connection.

The priest, as a young child from a large family, recalled their Sunday routine: get up, get dressed (in Sunday best), cram everyone in the car, sit through Mass, and then – DONUTS! Yes, it is a long-standing Catholic tradition to enjoy donuts after Mass. This was a weekly treat, and one that was very much anticipated. One Sunday, the priest recollected, a missionary was speaking at his church. The visitor shared with the congregation about the severe hunger and famine in his country. Children rarely attended school because they had work to earn money to help feed the family. As the missionary was speaking, all of his brothers and sisters started glancing at one another – they knew what was coming. As the basket was passed, much to their chagrin, their father deposited the “donut money” in the collection for the missionary. As they drove home in silence, disappointed that they missed out on their treat for the week, they also appreciated how lucky they were to be living in a country where shelter, clothing, education, and food were never a concern. I’m not sure how many of us would imitate this scenario. While we may make a contribution, it is doubtful we would deprive our children of donuts because we do not want our children to go without. That may be a mistake.

This week marks the second week of Lent, a Season in the Liturgical Year for FASTING, PRAYER, and ALMSGIVING. In Religion class, your children have been asked to consider giving up something as a sacrifice: food (snacks, candy), television, or video games, for example. They have also been encouraged to give of themselves in service to their family or others in the community. Finally, dedication to prayer throughout the day and especially by attending Mass more regularly is paramount. Over the next three weeks, students in all grades K-8, will experience a Lenten Retreat with their class, in which they will learn more deeply about the importance of the Lenten journey through discussion, prayer, activities, scripture, and song. Seventh and eighth graders will also participate in Eucharistic Adoration. We hope that parents and grandparents will extend these teachings at home as well. Our secular world does not recognize or embrace these ideals, so it is important that all of us work together to help our children grow and stand firm in their faith to give them strength on the journey in this life and the next.

Deo Gratias, Kathy