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Family Discussion Guide on Faith and Technology

Illustration of a parent and child talking about faith
Guidance for families and parents sharing the Catholic faith.

Questions and activities to help Catholic families explore Saint Carlo Acutis's spirituality and use technology wisely together.

Welcome, Families

Saint Carlo Acutis shows that families can talk honestly about screens, social media, and faith. This guide offers four short sessions you can do at home — no expertise required.

Session 1 — Our Family & Our Screens (30 min)

Opening Prayer

Holy Spirit, guide our conversation. Help us use every gift — including technology — to love You and one another. Amen.

Conversation Starters

  • What do we most enjoy doing online as a family?
  • When does screen time help us learn or connect? When does it pull us apart?
  • Carlo played video games but never missed daily Mass. What balance do we want?

Family Agreement

Together, choose one rule for this week (examples: phones away at dinner, Sunday without social media, or a shared prayer before bedtime).

Session 2 — Carlo's Story at Home (30 min)

Read aloud a short summary of Carlo's life (see Biography for Teens resource).

Questions for Children & Teens

  • What surprised you about Carlo?
  • Carlo helped homeless people and stood up to bullies. Who needs kindness in our community?
  • Carlo said many people die as "photocopies." What makes you uniquely yourself?

Activity

Draw or write: "One way I can be original for God this week."

Session 3 — Jesus in the Eucharist (30 min)

Carlo's greatest love was the Eucharist. Visit Carlo's miracles exhibition together online. Pick one miracle to discuss.

Questions

  • What does "Real Presence" mean?
  • How can we prepare better for Mass as a family?
  • Could we try adoration together this month?

Session 4 — Digital Evangelists (30 min)

Carlo used the internet to spread the Gospel. Families can too.

Brainstorm Together

  • Share a quote from Carlo on social media.
  • Send an encouraging message to someone who is lonely.
  • Recommend a Catholic podcast, video, or article.
  • Post nothing negative for seven days — only truth and kindness.

Closing Prayer to Saint Carlo Acutis

Saint Carlo Acutis, friend of Jesus and patron of the internet, help our family grow in faith. Teach us to love the Eucharist and to use every tool wisely for God's glory. Amen.

Parents' Note

You do not need perfect answers. Honest conversation builds trust. If children ask hard questions about suffering (Carlo's illness) or science and miracles, it is okay to say "Let's learn together" and consult your parish priest or catechist.