A New week

Sunday, being the first day of the week, had everyone up and dressed to attend the early Mass at their church. Once again everyone heard Kurt grumble about not eating breakfast first.

And his dad told him. "Kurt, I don't think you will faint from hunger; drink some water."

The disappointed boy did drink a glass of water but still grumbled to himself. And reluctantly went out the door with his family. Louisa walked with him.

"I'm hungry too. This Mass isn't very long. And Katia will serve breakfast as soon as we get home."

"I know."

The closer they family got to the church; they saw a large group of people climbing the steps.

"Look Kurt, there are many more children attending this Mass than last Sunday."

"Maybe I won't be the only child whose stomach makes noises."

"We may be hearing moms and dads trying to quiet their small children."

Maria and Georg had seen all the children too. "It's nice to know there are so many families who also like this Mass time."

"Yes it is Maria. Our children won't be so conspicuous. I also see other families like to sit close to the front."

"The third pew from the front is vacant; we can sit there."

The organist began the prelude music before the family took their seats. They watched the altar boys light the candles on the altar.

Maria whispered to Georg. "Maybe Friedrich or Kurt will be an altar boy one day."

"They may Maria."

In a moment the organist began the processional hymn; a signal to the parishioners to stand. And soon the choir from the loft in the back began to sing. It was a hymn Maria knew; she quietly sung along with the others in the congregation.

The cross bearer led the procession from the rear of the church to the altar. The hymn concluded and Father Mike began the Mass. The prayers were said and scripture was read. The essence of the Mass began. No Catholic needed a prayer book to follow the consecration of the wafer; the motions of the priest told them.

And within moments, the people were coming forward to partake in communion. Because there were so many people, it took longer than usual. Kurt was not pleased. He sat with both hands covering his stomach.

Before Father Mike gave the benediction which concludes the Mass, he made announcements.

"It's great to see all of you this morning. I hope everyone enjoyed their summer vacation. I know most of you already know about our picnic on Labor Day. It will begin at noon. The ladies of the church will be in the social hall to accept your food dishes at eleven o'clock. The men will set-up the tables in our courtyard at the same time. Please stand and sing our concluding hymn."

After the first stanza, the altar boys extinguished the candles and the Cross bearer led them from the altar where Father Mike pronounced the benediction.

"The Mass is ended. Go in peace to love and serve the Lord." And the congregation responded. Thanks be to God!

All the people exited rather quickly; Kurt was pleased. He was also pleased when Katia told him he could walk home with her and Franz. He didn't know his parents didn't leave immediately.

As soon as they were on the sidewalk in front of the church Maria heard. "Mommy, there's Rosemarie and Rita."

"I see Marta. You and Gretl can go speak to them."

She let loose of their hands and they immediately started a conversation with them. Paul spoke to the couple.

"My daughters told me all about meeting you at the playground."

"Mine did the same. I was surprised; they're both usually very shy."

"Are you coming to the picnic? It's always a lot of fun. After we eat we usually walk to the main road and watch a small parade. The band from the high school marches in it."

Georg looked at Maria for an answer. "Sounds like a lot of fun. What kind of foods do people bring?"

"The ladies always make sure there's a wide variety; some bake a ham and slice it, others fry chicken. There are always plenty of side dishes and desserts."

"Georg, Katia makes a fabulous German potato salad."

"Perfect, Maria."

"Speaking of food, Maria, we better get home so our famished son can eat."

"Yes, we should."

They said their goodbyes and Maria and Georg were surprised when Marta told them she was hungry too.

It didn't surprise either parent to find Kurt outside watching for them. "What took you so long?"

"We learned all about the picnic on Monday. It should be a lot of fun, Go on to the dining room; we'll be there as soon as we wash our hands."

They heard Kurt announce. "They're home Katia; we can eat now."

When Georg and Maria arrived, he quickly said grace and "Pass the butter, please." Then grabbed a biscuit from the platter near him; covered it in butter and devoured it.

His parents held their laugh in but smiled broadly. There were giggles from his siblings. Franz then cut servings from the casserole and served everyone. While it cooled, they each had a biscuit with butter. Katia also had a large tray of pastries to finish the meal.

She saw nothing was left. "I purposely prepared all this food to last everyone to dinner time."

"I'll be ready to eat again by then."

"I'm sure you will, Kurt."

More giggles were heard. Georg reminded everyone. "While our food digests, everyone should find a quiet activity to do."

They did. Some read. Marta and Gretl colored. Georg and Friedrich played chess. And Maria looked at her family and prayed silently. God, I thank you for all the blessings you have given us. We now strive to follow your commandments as we learn how we can serve you. Amen.

Dinner was nothing fancy; it filled everyone. Singing occupied them until bedtime. And the married couple enjoyed their marital time together.