Catholics

Baptism 1950

We wonder if the kids believe. They’re always telling us they’re good with God. We aren’t so sure. We come from a different place, Wally and I; we grew up as cradle Catholics, whatever that means—no baby is born into religion. A parent baptizes them days, months or years later. Our generation grew up going to church on Sunday, praying morning prayers and grace at meals. We got all our sacraments and even went to Catholic school.

Mt. St. Michael's High School Graduation

Luckily, the kids went the same route. They too went to church on Sunday and said their prayers; that is, we prayed with them. They were baptized as babies, and have for the most part received their sacraments: Penance, Communion, and Confirmation. They continue the tradition. 

Family Baptism-Next Generation

Can’t get better than that, because any drift from faith is temporary. Just as the body grows, so does the spirit. When children leave home, they start to sort out the tenets of faith they grew up with. Encountering a society with different values, they pick and chose what “feels” right. Parents would like to spare them the difficulties that will cause, but to offer unwanted advice is counterproductive. The kids know what’s right and wrong, not because they’ve been taught, but because the inner voice of truth leads them. Can they ignore it? Of course not.

Betsy Ann

 So ease up, Parents. The kids are fine.