Body of Christ and a Shiny Dime

I took Sam and Max to Mass by myself this morning. Aaron is still recovering from his minor medical issue. My little boys are very cute and extremely friendly so they usually draw a lot of attention. They have gone to Mass every Sunday all their lives and a few extra times so they are well behaved and generally know what to expect. 

Today was the celebration of the Feast of St. Lawrence meaning there would be an ice cream social afterwards. Ice cream is a perfect bribe for my little guys. as we were entering our pew I reminded them that they need to be extra quiet and listen to to the stories (readings), sing the songs and pay very close attention to Father Dan's story (homily).

The boys did great. Until collection time... Sam had gathered change before we left the house and had designated himself the giver of the quarters and Max would have four coins to give - one of each.They were prepared. The usher presented the basket at our pew but did not realize the boys had offering and passed us. Sam shrieked; the usher came back. Both boys dropped each coin one by one into the basket. All of the older folks in the pews around us were amused. Max dropped a penny on the floor, I waved the usher on thinking we could just deal with the penny later. Max cried but was consoled when I assured him that we could give it to Father Dan later. The sweet elderly lady next to us tried to further console him by giving him a dime, and one to Sam. This started a war. They needed to trade... one was "prettier", "shinier"," bigger". I put one in each of their pockets, reminded them of ice cream, and told them they could give them to Father Dan later. I meant at the ice cream social; not during communion.

We line up in the communion processional. The boys have their arms crossed properly both are walking in front of me... not stopping, not talking, just doing a great job. We get to Father Dan, he offers me the Body of Christ and before I can say Amen, Sam has his shiny dime out and says, "Hey, Father Dan, I have something for you"... Father Dan smiled... I whispered to Sam, "Later, sweetie" and put the dime into his pocket. Crisis averted... This time.