2024 Evangelization Supplement
Evangelizing through the tradition of the family Sunday dinner
By Anita Bardo
When we talk about traditions, we often think about customs, practices and stories from the past that are handed on through generations.
In the Catholic faith, our traditions hold a rich history that has been passed down over time. Growing up, these traditions were taught to us, such as going to Mass, saying our prayers and learning how to behave in church. These practices are important as they connect us to our heritage and help us carry on the values of our faith.
I can remember attending first holy Communion and confirmation classes where I learned about these traditions of faith. I found it valuable to learn and understand the significance of these sacraments in my religious journey.
In my family, traditions are highly valued, especially our “Sunday Dinner” tradition. We always eat together at the same time around the same table without question. It’s a special time where we pray together and engage in meaningful conversations about our week. This tradition has created strong bonds and beautiful memories that I cherish dearly.
Maintaining a timeless tradition, my family—including the extended members, children and grandchildren—continues to uphold the practice of gathering for a weekly Sunday dinner. Every Sunday, my mother ensures this event takes place consistently at the same time.
An incredible aspect of this tradition is our circle time before the meal, where each member, from the youngest to the oldest, joins in raising their hands for the familiar prayer, thanking the Lord for the food we are about to eat: “Bless us, O Lord and these thy gifts, which we are about to receive from thy bounty, through Christ our Lord. Amen.” My dad included this beautiful addition, “Whether we eat or drink, let it all be for the glory and honor of God. Amen.”
This is a chance for us to pause and think about our words before we eat. It brings us joy, and gratitude for our togetherness. As our family gathers for a meal or a special occasion, bonds strengthen, communication improves and love never fails.
The time spent sharing about our highlights and challenges from the past week, as well as our plans for the upcoming week, is a way for our family to connect and support each other through talking, listening and offering prayers.
This, to me, is family evangelizing. It helps us to strengthen our bond and show how we care for one another as we navigate through the week ahead.
Building stronger families involves investing more in each other and our communities by being authentically ourselves.
While it may be challenging to discuss someone’s personal journey, forming strong relationships is crucial. By being genuine and open in our interactions, we can create a foundation of trust and mutual support within our families. These connections help us navigate life’s ups and downs together, encouraging strength and love within our family units.
“Sunday Dinners” are not very common these days, but they are important for families. Spending time together and talking about our week is a special time for us to connect. Teaching our children about the value of family and sharing meals together—just as Jesus did with the Apostles—is a form of evangelization worth passing down through generations.
In this Evangelization Supplement, we’ll look at evangelization within families, as well as in parishes and through apostolates.
(Anita Bardo is coordinator of the archdiocesan Office of Evangelization and Discipleship.) †