Taking Vince to Mass

I was down in Ocean City this past weekend with my son and in-laws.  My husband wasn't able to make it this weekend due to work constraints.  As a result, I had to take my squirmy, super active bundle of joy to the 7:30 Mass with me. 

We got dressed, and I put him into his stroller so we could make the quick trip over to St. Augustine.  We got there with about five minutes to spare.  Most people were so kind, smiling at Vincent, or holding doors open for us so we could pass.  One of the ushers, however, seemed slightly miffed that Vincent was there at all!  After Vince and I had situated ourselves towards the back of the Church (for any necessary "escapes" during tantrums or potty breaks), he came over and told me there was a small room in the back that we'd be "more comfortable" in. 

I've been to St. Augustine's plenty of times, and I'm well aware of the small chapel room that has been dormant for at least 5 years.  It opens into the Church Proper and provides no sound proofing.  It also serves as a parking area for strollers, wheelchairs, etc.  It is not a "cry room" nor even a real chapel at all.  It's simply a storage area that sometimes opens to allow an overabundance of parishoners take refuge during holiday gatherings.

Normally I'd take these kinds of "suggestions" as kind gestures, but I got the distinct impression he simply didn't want us in the Church.  He wanted us swept under the rug because he was afraid Vincent would begin acting up.  !!!  I admit to being miffed.  I calmly thanked him, however, and told him we were fine where we were.  Displeased, he walked back to the door and stared at us with ice daggers until Father made his way for the Processional.

Vince, for his part, was an absolute angel!  He happily played with my wallet while we were seated, or played with my veil and hair while I held him as we stood.  Then he caught sight of a magnificent statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (like the one I pictured above).  He kept looking up in amazement at this incredible statue of Our Lord in silent contemplation.  Then he'd look back at me with the biggest smile on his face.  :) 

Finally, during the Eucharistic prayers, I placed him into his stroller so I could kneel.  He happily opened and closed his buckles which freed me to devote my attention solely to the miracle of the Mass.  Finally, the Eucharistic Procession started, and I attempted to get Vince ready to walk up.  He had been so happy with his buckles, though, that he began to cry angrily when I swooped him out and into line.  My perfect little angel chose NOW to scream his head off... go figure.

When I got the the front of the line, I knelt and accepted the Eucharist.  Father blessed Vince and patted his arm saying, "It's OK, buddy!" which didn't console him in the least.  He did, however, quiet down for the blessing, I think because he was curious about who Father was.  So I walked back to my seat wit him still crying his head off.  Upon being placed back into the stroller - silence.

*Shakes head*  Seriously, Vince?

Ah well.  I hate giving that usher such satisfaction, but Vince didn't know any better.  Ha ha.  C'est la vie. 

Kids have just as much right to attend a Mass as adults do.  However, I typically leave Vince home with Daddy so I can better participate, but I don't shoot scathing glares at others who bring their children with them.  I sincerely can't fathom how rude some people can be towards those of us with children!  *Shakes head*  Humpf.

---