Our Parish Nursery: Taking Care of Our Most Important Gifts

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14). This is precisely what the Cathedral nursery exists to do. Located in the former chapel and confessional space downstairs, the nursery is a space for our littlest Catholics to be cared for during Mass and events.

Milinda Sinohui has been serving as nursery coordinator since it re-opened in January 2022.

“This is far more than just watching kids play,” she says. “We operate this like a Montessori-style preschool.”

Milinda makes sure the nursery is well-stocked with religious toys. There are also toys for children to mimic things they see at home — like a kitchen set, for example. Milinda also plans programming for the kids. On Sundays, the staff and children spend time reading the Sunday readings and talking about them.

Nursery staff are paid and receive training. Milinda wants to make sure the nursery is the best it can be.

“In the past, I’ve viewed a nursery as a cry room,” she says. “The nursery here is not that. It’s an opportunity for children to learn at their level.”

Children ages 1 to 5 are welcome during Mass. There is space for 14 children.

Children ages 1 to 10 are welcome during parish activities and retreats.

Milinda and her husband, James, have five children. With the youngest two having special needs, the couple is so happy to have a space for their children to go during Mass where they can receive what they need.

“It’s hard to be a mother or father,” Milinda says. “There’s such pressure to have your children with you at Mass. I want to give moms and dads a space that is safe for them to take their children. We want to support women in the vocation of motherhood. It’s hard enough as it is.”

Fr. Kastl wanted to reopen the nursery because he knows how important it is for families at the Cathedral during Mass and events. It’s hard for parents to attend events if they don’t have anyone to care for their children. He also made sure the space is beautiful — this beauty, alone, helps draw children closer to the Lord.

“Fr. Kastl sees families as shepherds,” Milinda says. “He knows the value of forming ourselves and our children. I am thankful that he has such a willingness to form families.”

Milinda feels so blessed to be working in her current position. For her, it’s one way she can support families.

“After moving to Tulsa, the Lord put in my heart to do this,” Milinda says. “I want to serve and grow families. To me, this is part of the preservation of marriages and families. I want to support families in becoming more faithful and devout.”

Fr. Kastl and Milinda know the Lord is behind this ministry. It’s helping support parents as they grow in their faith.

“I believe this ministry will continue to grow and flourish,” Milinda says. “It’s a true blessing for parents — those who are growing and forming in faith.”

Nursery spots for events fill quickly and are sent out via Flocknote. Children are welcome in the nursery during 10 a.m. and noon Mass on Sundays until about 15 minutes before Mass ends. Parishioners are invited to come check out the nursery space.

Our Parish Nursery staff