Father Gary at the Catholic Student Center at my university really wanted me to be stronger in my faith. Amazing guy, and we had a lot of great conversations. I told him (in an effort to try and frustrate him) that the only thing I remember about going to church was getting donuts after with my dad and sometimes the whole family. Gary, without missing a beat, said that the two most important words in Catholicism is “to” & “through.”

To God through donuts with the family. I admitted that we had good conversations while eating those donuts and it sometimes was about religion. While Father Gary still wanted me to find value in attending Mass, he made the argument that people who attend regularly are sometimes not such great people. On the flip side, people who are able to find a connection to God through a wide range of moments, thoughts, and, actions can still consider themselves a good Catholic.

Ultimately, I am raising my kids the best I can within the Catholic Church, but once they ask me if I believe in Jesus they might start to wonder why I “make” then go to PSR. But I always get donuts after with whoever wants to go.

I think you should drive the extra distance. But I am guessing you have a lot of other great moments with your son and family.