With Memorial Day weekend behind us it’s time to start turning our eyes toward summer. Summertime is when many of us are taking breaks from our daily lives to renew and refresh. When you think about heading outdoors to enjoy nature or traveling on summer holiday, why not make it a Catholic vacation? Here are a few ways you can bring your faith with you when you go:

Camping or Retreat
Go on a Catholic camping trip! Whether it is a Catholic summer camp for your kids or grandkids, a retreat center in the woods, or simply your own excursion with a tent, you can incorporate your faith in so many ways! As you’re exploring nature or looking up at the stars, thank God for His beautiful creation. Sing songs of praise and worship around the campfire, and start your day with a family Rosary! Check with your local youth group, diocese, or retreat center to see if they have any special opportunities.

Pilgrimage
Take a faith-focused journey to a special Catholic site in your area or even to another country. Carry your prayer intentions with you, and offer your time and travels for those intentions. You might journey to a special church or shrine or holy site, such as the Oratory of Saint Joseph in Montreal, the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help in Wisconsin, or many other places.

Visiting Catholic sites
When you’re on the road, stop by the local cathedral, shrine, or parish. Make time to attend daily Mass or adoration, and definitely don’t forget to fulfill your Sunday obligation! Finding a beautiful new Catholic Church to explore can be fun, and you’ll see how Catholics in other parts of the country and world worship much like you do. The universality of the Church is amazing!

Catholic festivals and parish picnics
Summer is a popular time for your parish or diocese to hold their annual festival, carnival, concert, or picnic. What a great way to grow in relationship with your parish community, to help raise money for your parish, and have a lot of fun as a family! Check with your parish or diocese to see what’s going on in your area. Some dioceses even have Christian or Catholic music festivals that are perfect for family-friendly fun. It’s important to show your kids that being Catholic brings us joy!