The Archdiocesan Family Life Commission recently hosted an engaging session on Building the Domestic Church, led by Alicia Hoyte and Tricia Syms, both wives and mothers. Approximately 70 persons registered for the event, which explored how families can integrate faith into their everyday lives through three key components: Christian relationships, family rituals, and reaching out to others.

Alicia, with her background in clinical psychology and years of parenting experience, explained that the domestic church—first highlighted during the Second Vatican Council—refers to the home as the primary place where faith is lived and celebrated. She reminded participants that the goal of these sessions is not to shame or lecture parents, but to empower families to find joy in one another and in their faith. Tricia echoed this, affirming that the Commission’s mission is to accompany families of all shapes and circumstances, supporting not only married couples but also the separated, divorced, and widowed.

This first session focused on the “rite” of Christian relationship. Participants learned practical techniques for managing emotions, prioritizing family connection despite busy schedules, and nurturing positive interactions. Alicia emphasized the importance of repair after conflicts, encouraging families to strive for a healthy balance, such as maintaining a 4-to-1 ratio of positive to negative exchanges.

Parents were also introduced to simple grounding exercises, such as the “Butterfly Hug,” to manage anxiety in the ups and downs of family life. These techniques help parents remain calm, reduce stress, and model resilience for their children.

The presenters stressed that even small, intentional rituals—Sunday lunches, bedtime prayers, or putting aside phones for undistracted attention—strengthen bonds and keep faith alive at home. Participants resonated with the idea that the warmth of faith, lived out through love and attentiveness, has a lasting impact on children’s spiritual development.

The evening concluded with small group discussions where families shared insights and committed to implementing new practices in their homes. The Commission will continue the journey in the next session on discipleship discipline, which takes place Thursday, August 28th, 2025, virtually from 7:00 pm.

For more information on how you can get involved, like and follow the Archdiocesan Family Life Commission on Facebook and Instagram, visit aflcrc.org, or call 299-1047.