I felt that I should perhaps put the other side of the argument. As a mother who brought a child to St Columba's from a baby and who also was raised in the parish with three sisters I feel that I am both sympathetic to the writer's comments but also have feelings on the way in which some parents take care of their children at Mass.
Whilst the 10am Mass on Sunday morning can be considered a mass for the children, it is open to everyone whether with or without children. One of the most irritating things about some parents with small children is those who bring cars and hard toys to mass, not only because they are noisy but also in a lot of cases they ruin the benches. I agree that children of a small age cannot be expected to be totally silent for one hour but why not try books - it worked with my child. Also in some circumstances where the child is particularly agitated and cannot be consoled go to the back of the church where it is less noisy for the rest of the congregation but still possible to hear the mass.
Children are a very important part of our Church and indeed the Mass - something which Father Barry is encouraging by bringing them up next to the altar to sing the Our Father. Most people I am sure love to see them - I know I do, but we do need to respect other people who may wish to pray in silence where possible. We need to make children part of the whole experience but equally teach them respect for the House of God - encourage them to genuflect at the altar, keep their hands together when returning from Communion, all of the things many of us had to teach our own children from a young age.
There is place for us all with a little consideration and respect on all sides.
Name and email address supplied
Grateful thanks for prayersMy husband and I would like to thank all parishioners, family and friends for their prayers offered for me over these many months during my illness. There have also been many candles lit on my behalf and I sincerely hope that this has in no way contributed to Global Warming and if it has I am sure we will all be forgiven.
May the Love of our Lord Jesus Christ and His Healing Love fill the lives of each and every one of you and your families.
God Bless you all
Mrs Joan Charman