Traditions AT ST. MARK

In Catholic circles, the passing down of the Faith from Christ and the apostles is referred to as "Sacred Tradition" or "Apostolic Tradition" — with a big "T" — to distinguish it from other, lesser, little “t” traditions.

There's actually a beautiful distinction in the Catholic faith between two kinds of tradition — and understanding it can transform how your family lives the faith at home.

Catholics distinguish big "T" Tradition, which comes from God, either through Christ or the apostles, from little "t" human traditions or customs.

Little "t" traditions are not required — but they are powerful. They are the ways Catholic families take the truths of the Faith and make them real in their homes, around their tables, and in the rhythms of daily life.

Examples of Sacred (Big "T") Traditions include:

• The apostles' teaching, liturgical practice, and institutions such as apostolic succession, including the seven sacraments and the office of bishop.
• The Sacrifice of the Mass, wherein Jesus offered bread and wine at the Last Supper, truly united to his sacrificial death so that all Masses offered by priests are sacrifices to God.
• The Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist
• The authority of the Pope as Successor of Peter
• The canon of Sacred Scripture itself
  

Examples of little "t" traditions you can start this year:

• Lighting an Advent wreath together
• Doing the Epiphany Blessing with the chalk
• Praying a decade of the Rosary before bed
• Celebrating your patron saint feast day like a second birthday
• Praying a blessing before meals as a family
• Making the sign of the cross over your children at bedtime
• Observing meatless Fridays as a family act of penance and solidarity
• Framing an image of the Sacred Heart in your home

We will be sharing “Little Ts” (little traditions) throughout the year to support your family in enhancing or establishing your domestic church!

Do you have any Little Ts you are already doing and want to share them with us?