1. Develop a daily rhythm of prayer
Put in your daily schedule what and when you are going to pray.
Start the day in quiet prayer and scripture reading before anything digital, like Instagram, or the news, or television. If you have kids, ideally this will be before they wake up. Simply start the day offering your day to God doing the daily offerings and spending time with the daily reading of the Gospel.
Finish your day doing a daily examination of conscience, giving thanks for the blessings of the day, and praying to Mary.
Watch a video from Fr. Ignacio about beginning and ending the day with Jesus
2. Exercise or go for a walk
If at all possible, while maintaining proper social distancing, exercise or go for a walk through your neighborhood. There is something to engaging in this space in your body, to stay grounded with God.
3. One “focal practice”
Find an activity in which you are able to give your complete focus without getting distracted or finding yourself concerned about the conditions of the outside world. Think of new hobbies or habits you can pick up. This can be gardening, woodworking, cooking, reading, art, chess, playing an instrument, etc.
4. Eat meals together as a family
Be intentional about spending time with those in your household. Eat together. Develop the habit of good conversations. You can also designate one evening as movie night or game night.
5. Feed your mind
Take this time to read a good book of spirituality or literature. You can also read a whole book of the bible, like one of the 4 Gospels. Here is a recommended list of books of classics of spirituality. You can also do one of the Bible studies or formation courses provided by formed.org. We recommend the Lectio Bible study series.
6. Limit intake of news
The news cycle moves at a rapid pace, but our internal tempo is not meant to live at that speed. Limit your intake to one or two times daily. Consider setting an alarm for once in the morning and/or once in the evening.
7. Limit screen time and escapist behaviors
It will be very easy to indulge in escapist behaviors. Find ways to limit your intake of things like alcohol, social media, television, sugar, staying up late, etc.
8. Stay in touch with others
Continue to connect with your St Michael Community on a regular basis. Every Sunday or Monday participate in one of the ‘Gathered in His Name’ groups to stay connected with others. Click here to learn more.
9. Celebrate Sunday
Keep your routine to celebrate the Lord’s day, or to start one for the first time. Join us for the 10:00 a.m. or 7:00 p.m. Mass every Sunday as we worship together. You can also go to ‘daily mass’ during weekdays. Click here to livestream the Mass and for tips on how to celebrate it online.