Cristi Valdez had a simple answer for why she homeschools her children — “for our faith.” The parishioner of Holy Trinity Church in Gainesville and her children joined hundreds of others at the church May 12 for the Mass for Homeschool Families celebrated by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge.
In his homily, Bishop Burbidge spoke about the joy homeschool families bring to the diocese. “We rejoice in your example, dear parents, as you try every day to be faithful to your commitment to be the first teachers of your children, especially in the ways of faith,” he said. “That example, that witness (is) needed more than ever in a society that in subtle ways and in not-so-subtle ways is trying to diminish the role of parents in the education, faith formation and the moral development of their children.”
Bishop Burbidge also offered words of encouragement to the children. “My young friends, renew your ‘yes’ to the Lord to your vocation, which right now is to be a loving son and daughter, a loving brother and sister, a good student and a close follower of Jesus,” he said.
After Mass, the families held a May crowning on the steps of the church. A Marian song was played as children placed flowers into vases at the feet of a statue of Mary. The families then ate cookies and played games on the parish grounds.
