Taking 7 month old to Mass?

Question

I normally leave my DS with my mother for mass but she can't watch him. Any tips on bringing him along? I would baby wear but he gets angsty so I'll probably just leave him in his carrier and then hold him the rest of the time but I'm nervous!

Answer

Take your baby! So many parents bring their kids to my church and sometimes the little ones fuss a bit, but it's not a big deal. My church has an area with this large window for parents to use if they want. They can hear what's happening in the main room, but we can't hear them so kids can be louder (there's toys and stuff as well). Some parents choose to use this room, but not all and no one minds. Usually if a kid starts crying the parent tries to quiet them in the pews, but if it goes on for a while or the child is so upset he's drowning out the priest completely the parents take the child outside for a bit. Its no big deal at all. I've seen people hold their kids the whole time, use baby carriers, baby wear, etc. Do what works for you and your baby.
I don't have kids yet, but I'll be bringing my babies even as newborns to mass. Ive yet to see a fellow parishioner get upset with the kids and babies being fussy. Most people understand that it's just part of parenting and kids being kids. And many people in church have either been through it with their own kids or are going through it now too or they're planning on dealing with the same thing one day. So it's just accepted and sometimes I'll even see other parishioners help out the parent with their baby or toddlers if needed. Once our priest even carried a baby around  during his homely to help keep him settled. 
Church is supposed to be an accepting place. I hope your church supports you with your newborn, even if he gets upset and cries during mass. If they don't maybe a different church is needed. Also I'll add that it's usually the later masses (like the 11am ones generally) that have more kids and are more child friendly than the 9am masses.

Answer

Definitely take your baby. I've had priests request parents not to leave even if the baby gets fussy; that they can just talk louder. Some people even offer to help, if they see you're becoming overwhelmed.  I agree with going around the 11am Mass, as that involves A LOT of kids. My sister sits at the end of a pew, next to the wall. That way, if needed, she can stand with my niece and move around a bit.

Taking 7 month old to Mass?

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