Why Do We Have to Go to Mass While on Vacation?

By Kristy Solis

“Why do we have to go to Mass while we are on vacation,” my 7-year-old daughter pleaded when we were out of town.
At first, I was annoyed that she would even ask this question. My initial reaction (unspoken) “It is a matter of conviction! We always go to Mass, even if we are out of town!”

Naively, I thought this practice of faith was already engrained in my daughter’s core. We have attended Mass as a family and as a part of her routine, since before she was even born. Then, I paused and realized this could be a teachable moment.

So, I asked my daughter the following questions:
“Do we always go to Mass every week?” My daughter answered, “Yes, Mom”
“Do we always go to Mass even when we travel?” My daughter answered, “Yes, Mom.”
“Then, what makes today any different?” My daughter just gave me a look of uncertainty.
“Why is it important to go to Mass?” My daughter answered, “Relationship with Jesus.”
“When has Jesus taken a vacation from you?” My daughter answered “Never, Mom.”
“Now, do you understand why we always show up? It is the same as the Lord always showing up for each and every one of us.”

My daughter answered under her breathe, “Gee, Mom, I just asked a question.”
To be honest, I was relieved that she knew the answers. I am certain my daughter will not ask that question again.
Do you have any stories of your child questioning the practices of our faith?
Let us pray: May our children profess their faith through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.