Fr. Patrick Peyton was perhaps one of the earliest examples of a Catholic influencer. Known to millions around the world as “the Rosary priest,” he made famous the motto, “The family that prays together stays together.”

Patrick was born in Ireland in 1909, the sixth of nine children. Every evening, his whole family would pray the Rosary together. At the age of nine, Patrick felt the desire to join the priesthood when he served at Mass in his home parish. He and his brother came to Pennsylvania in 1927 to reunite with their sister who was married and living there. He worked at the Catholic parish as a janitor; that parish helped solidify his call to the priesthood. Patrick became sick with advanced tuberculosis during his studies in the seminary. As his health continually declined, he was given the choice to undergo surgery or pray for a miracle. Patrick chose to pray. He asked Mary to intercede for him, and that same year, he recovered completely.

Fr. Patrick was ordained a priest in 1941. He made it his mission to bring the Rosary to 10 million families around the world. He wrote letters to bishops and church leaders, asking them to join his campaign. He knew that he would reach far more families if he could get his message out on the radio. So,he traveled to New York City, where he gained the support of the Mutual Broadcasting System and convinced Bing Crosby and a handful of other celebrities to join him on his radio show, where he led families in praying the Rosary.

Fr. Patrick’s radio show was so well-received, he travelled to Hollywood, where his vision began to take shape. Fr. Patrick went on to create radio, television, and film productions, as well as hosting 540 Rosary Rallies all over the world, gathering millions of people in prayer. Fr. Patrick’s organization, Holy Cross Family Ministries, continues his ministry today with rosary and prayer resources, family ministry, and multimedia productions that educate and inspire families around the world to grow in faith and pray together daily.

•Why is it important to be truthful?

•What truth is Jesus referring to in today’s Gospel? Why does Jesus want to guide us to “all truth”?

•If you could ask Jesus anything, what would you ask him?

•Venerable Patrick Peyton used different forms of media to reach families about the faith.What forms of media do we have available to us today to share about God and the importance of prayer

Enjoy this refreshing drinkthat needs three ingredients—one in two forms.

The shamrock is often used as an analogy for the Trinity, representing the unity and distinctions of the Persons of God. This outdoor family activity will help you celebrate the Trinity.

A shamrock is a clover-like plant that grows in grassland and roadsides. Pack up the family and go on a shamrock hunt. While four-leaf clovers are symbols of good luck around the world, we are looking for three-leaf clovers to remind us of the Trinity. Go to a local park, nature preserve, pasture, or school field. The best hunting grounds for shamrocks are in patches of white clovers. Have each family member pick some clovers and some wildflowers too.

When you return home arrange the clovers and flowers in a vase or planter and use it as a table decoration for dinner.

Reflection on the Trinity

On this Trinity Sunday, think about each Person of the Trinity by doing an extended reflection on the Sign of the Cross.

Gather the family together for a time of meditative prayer. You may consider playing some instrumental music in the background. Bring a notebook or prayer journal to write down your reflections. Select one person to lead the meditation. Pause after each set of questions and invite family members to write or draw. Share your answers after the prayer.

In the name of the Father–How have I encountered God’s love? How do I feel his protection and care? When do I turn to him? How does he encourage me? ‍

and of the Son –What was Jesus like when he was little? How does Mass help me grow closer to Jesus? How can I grow my friendship with him?

and of the Holy Spirit –Where has the Holy Spirit worked in my life this past week? How has the Holy Spirit brought me hope? What direction do I need from the Holy Spirit?

Amen.