We adore Thee, O Christ, and we bless Thee, for by Thy Holy cross Thou hast redeemed the world.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mary Queen is proud to host monthly Family Holy Hours on the third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. Father John Moriarty brought the holy hour ministry to Mary Queen in April 2003. Families from surrounding parishes in the diocese are invited to attend. The Family Holy Hours have truly brought many graces and blessings to our parish and the people who attend the special evenings.

We are thankful to Father Danny and Father Jacob for having lead the holy hours. Their wonderful words of wisdom are directed towards the children but are inspirational to adults and everyone present. At the beginning of each holy hour, the priest invites all the children to come down to sit at the base of the altar in front of Jesus Christ, truly present in the Most Blessed Sacrament. They enjoy being close to the priest during the holy hours. We are occasionally blessed to have a visiting priest lead the holy hours. Bishop Gainer has led Family Holy Hours at Mary Queen, as well.

Each month a scripture passage is read followed by a reflection on a particular theme or saint. Holy cards of the saint are given to everyone. Interwoven with the songs are a decade of the Rosary or a chaplet. During the three periods of silent adoration, the priest invites the children and everyone present to kneel, prostrate, or sit quietly before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament as they pray to our Eucharistic Lord. Toward the end of the Holy Hour, the priest invites the children to offer their petitions. This is a favorite time of many, and the children’s petitions truly touch everyone’s hearts in a special way. Before the closing song, the priest gives everyone a blessing with the monstrance. Afterwards, fellowship and refreshments are enjoyed by all in the meeting room or outside, weather permitting.

Although the Family Holy Hours are directed towards children, the hour of songs, prayer, reflection, petitions, and prayer is immensely enjoyed by all. We encourage you to consider attending one with your family.

Family Holy Hours are always the third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. Before each holy hour, the sacrament of Confession is available at 5:15 p.m.

Check the Calendar page for information on upcoming Holy Hours. For more information, call Mary Graehler at 224-0909.