And how to foster it? Let's ask Archbishop Raymund Burke:
"When I was in first grade, I used to like to play Mass with the participation of my siblings and neighboring children. My parents bought for me a Mass kit for children, which was available at the time. [...] To this day I feel badly that it was lost somewhere along the way. [...] I can tell you that the little Mass kit played its part in fostering my vocation to the priesthood."***
Two points.
One, I would LOVE to get my hands on that Mass kit play set! What a wonderful way to help foster vocations to the priesthood. I know my wife would get mad if I give this to our only son, but... what the heck! It's a toy, right? And a healthy one at that! No gun firing, no violence, no carnapping, etc.
Two, manufacturers of this kit must put a label "For boys only!" unless we start getting little girls playing like Jefferts-Schori (belch!)
***
By the way, the quote above was from an article from Zenit which you can read here. It mentions a store named Wee Believers who makes toys that help strengthen the faith of little catholic children. Here is the play Mass kit that they are selling.
retails for $76.49. Kit includes twelve cleanable pieces and a detailed companion booklet contained in a durable, canvas case. Crucifix, Chalice, Thurible, Finger Bowl, 2 Cruets, 2 Candles, Paten (cotton/polyester blend), Corporal & Purificator (cotton cloth), and play Hosts (foam). All other pieces are cotton/polyester blend, carrying case is nylon. Ages 3-8. MagnifiKid! included while supplies last. Made in Thailand. Kit and pieces are created from all new materials. Companion booklet and packaging sleeve are printed on 80% recycled materials
Just a few more clicks of the keyboard and mouse, and voila! Here's more:
retails for $49.99. You can buy it here.
And here's another one
Here's what they had to say:
Looking for an awesome visual and tangible activity that makes the Mass more meaningful for your kids? Do you want a terrific tangible tool for explaining the sacred vessels and linens used? Would you like to know what a corporal or an incense boat is? Do they know the names and uses of the things they see on the altar?
Not bad, eh?
Maybe a good Christmas gift for our kids.
***
DISCLAIMER: The companies above are not paying any advertising fee to be featured on my blog. (damn!) I featured them so that you may have better choices as gifts for our kids this Christmas. (Huzzah!)
