Anne Burkhalter’s favorite part of homeschooling is being with all her siblings. Emely Chavez loves learning about God and the saints.
Maria Fernanda Cruz has been homeschooled for five years. “My favorite memory is my mom waking me up with a little bell saying it’s time to start school,” she said. “I like that (with homeschooling) we learn more about what God has done for us and how much he has loved us.”
Nicolas Salguero appreciates how homeschooling lets him spend time with his family. “My parents get involved, they know what I’m doing and I’m with them all the time,” he said. He said his favorite homeschool memory was attending the Mass for Homeschool Families in past years.
Bishop Michael F. Burbidge celebrated the Mass for Homeschool Families at Holy Trinity Church in Gainesville Oct. 28. The Mass was hosted by the diocesan Office of Catholic Schools. Afterward, families socialized while enjoying cookies and cider, doing crafts and watching a puppet show.
In his homily, Bishop Burbidge commended the parents for the hands-on role they play in their children’s education. “We lift up today your vocation to be the first teacher of your children,” he said. “In a world that’s trying to take parents away from that responsibility, you are staying strong.”
He asked that prayer guide their work. “Prayer must be at the center of all that we do,” said Bishop Burbidge. “Did you ever notice when life gets most chaotic and stressful, it’s usually when we are acting as if everything depends on us rather than relying on the strength that God provides? So make your home a school of prayer. Pray together. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in all of your endeavors and to keep you truly wise.”
