March2026:Reclaim Sundays with time for great conversation
“Good chat, Dad.” “I’m glad we had this chance to talk.” “Thanks for the time, friend.”
When we have had a good conversation with friends or loved ones, it just feels right. So often, our communication is fraught with practical or logistical concern, but when we can share with each other the questions, topics, and concerns that really matter, we grow in our relationships and in our joy. This month of March, the archdiocese encourages us toreclaim our Sundaysby intentionally elevating our conversations. See below for ideas from the archdiocese as well as some particular ways we here at Nativitycancultivate good talk.
Set aside time for intentional conversation and check on each other’s “highs and lows” from the week.
Read or listen to the daily Gospels. Discuss the reading.
Set aside one-on-one time between a parent and a child to encourage
Conversations that may be lost in the busyness of family life. (Go out for breakfast or coffee/cocoa, etc.)
Consider a silent dinner (counter intuitive to elevated conversation) - during the silent dinner, a piece of music is listened to, or a book is read. This will lead to elevated conversation following the experience.
Liturgical Living:
Celebrate St. Joseph’s solemnity. (March 19) Honor your father and grandfathers somehow. Show appreciation to your priest in some way.
Celebrate the Solemnity of the Annunciation in some way. (March 25) It is a break from Lent and nine months to Christmas!
Here at Nativity: Both theNativity Men's Cluband theNativityCouncil of Catholic Womenoffer perfect opportunities this month for great conversations with fellowparishioners.See the links for information aboutFirst Fridaymorning gatherings, fish fries, the Irish Tea,anddonut Sundays.When gatheredforthese events,encourage elevated conversation by...
Introducing yourselfand learning the names of the others you are with.
Inviting everyone to share about their favorite ways to spend Sundays.
Deliberately avoidinganynegative comments and complaints.
Offering a simple response to the gospel or testimony about how Jesus is working in your life.
In the family and home: In addition to all the above ideas, be sure to take time, especially on birthdays and holidays, to intentionally honor those who are gathered around your table. On birthdays, invite everyone tosay a little somethingabout the person’s gifts. On holidays, inviteall to share stories and memories.
Make coffee time a time for peacefulsharing, or after school time a moment to note the day’s blessings along with a snack.Start withSundaysand begin toconvert habits of good communication toelevated conversation!