Society

A Ball at the Elevation: What to Do With a Child at Mass

Zuzanna Radzik // Photo: Grażyna Makara

I took the ball away from my daughter — she answered with a shriek. I gave it back — it flew off across the nave. A moment later, the two of us fled the church.

By Zuzanna Radzik

Mass fell between nap time and lunch. A playground would have suited that slot better. I went to whichever church was closest, somewhat unprepared. I should have brought some quiet distractions — a sketchpad, crayons, a few nice books. Somehow I'd never needed a special survival strategy before. At our Flemish church, there's a little table, building blocks, crayons, and two swings. Here — nothing. And in the stroller, only sandbox toys, a ball, and a bubble-blowing set. None of it much good in a church.

The start was lovely. My daughter climbed up onto her own chair next to me, gazed at the liturgy sheet with an impressive show of understanding, and cast sidelong glances at the older woman behind us, who responded with a smile. Perfect. Again and again.

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