Sir, - Miriam Donohue's column of September 13th was welcome; it raised questions that need to be asked and has generated discussion.
Small, intimate group Masses such as those she described always seem more meaningful because the congregation has a common bond - in this case one between expatriates who obviously looked forward to coming together each week to participate; and participate is the key word.
In our parish every Sunday there is a family Mass at which children are welcome to participate as readers, as gift bearers, or in the choir. The readings, prayers of the faithful and sermon are short and child-oriented. A eucharistic prayer for children may be used.
The celebration sometimes continues afterwards with tea and chat bringing a real sense of community to the parish. The clergy are very supportive and say, "We'll do what the 'mammies' tell us" - the "mammies" being a liturgy group of eight mothers. This demonstrates clergy and lay-people working together, which is very important for the survival of our Church.
The family Mass has brought a rich dimension and vibrancy to our parish. I encourage parents who are experiencing a difficulty like Miriam Donohoe's to find a child-friendly Mass. After all, we usually research the various venues to which we bring our children to make sure they are child-orientated. So why not do the same with Mass? - Yours, etc.,
THÉRÈSE O'DONOGHUE, Woodbine Avenue, Booterstown, Co Dublin.