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Chris,
As Eric pointed out, this is a pastoral matter best discussed with your priest. It sounds like there are a few things going on beyond the issue of meeting a Mass obligation.
Your wife seems to be going through a rough patch. And that's something you guys need to lovingly discuss and perhaps seek help for.
I suspect by the time you receive our replies; it will be too late for this week but for future reference, it couldn't hurt to bring the kids again. If for no other reason, it will be a lesson for them. If they misbehave during Mass and you have to leave, then you have to go again.
In terms of their Sunday obligation: Children need to reach the age of reason before they are bound to the obligation. Your 2-year-old certainly isn't bound, your 6-year-old is on the cusp, and your 9-year-old, more than likely is bound.
There is no hard and fast age, but it's usually assumed to be around 7, [the age of reason]. Certainly, it's supposed to be a requirement for one’s First Confession and Holy Communion. The obligation of course falls on the parents, because of transportation needs, etc.
In the case you described, it appears that your wife made a good faith effort to attend Mass and bring the children.
According to her judgment, the children's behavior was such that they couldn't stay. So, on the surface, I'd say the obligation was met. But as I noted above, it wouldn't hurt, if possible, to take the kids to Mass again.
I'd at least have some additional family prayer time too.
Finally, kids are kids; they find it difficult to sit still and be quiet in Church. So long as they aren't a major distraction to others, then I recommend you sit it out. Obviously, you want to teach them self-control but you don't want to make it a drudgery for them to be in Church.
You can bring age-appropriate religious books for the younger ones. I'd also suggest going through the parts of the Mass at home with them. Talk to them about it on the way to Church, then ask them about it on their way home.
Make a game out of it. This will give them a reason to pay attention.
Best of Luck,
John DiMascio |
