The Holy Family

THE COUPLE THAT PRAYS TOGETHER STAYS TOGETHER.

 Fr. Johnny Doherty, C.Ss.R.

The Holy Family

 “(Jesus) grew to maturity and he was filled with wisdom; and God’s favour was with him.” Like most young people, Jesus probably thought he knew everything! And like all of us he had to learn that there was so much to discover about life. It is lovely to think of Jesus growing up in the home of Mary and Joseph and learning all the ordinary things of life and then going beyond them to the deepest mysteries of God. That is why we refer to them as the Holy Family – they were just like our own families. This week is a time to treasure our homes and families and to know that that same Jesus lives with us. We do this through developing a sense of gratitude for each person and expressing our thankfulness. We do it through a quality of affection and peace.

Morning Prayer, when together

Father, help us to live as the Holy Family,

united in respect and love.

Bring us to the joy and peace of our eternal home.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

During the day, when apart

Father, accept the gift of our married love.

Through the prayers of Mary, the virgin Mother of God,

and of her husband Joseph,

unite our families in peace and love.

We ask this through Christ Our Lord.

Evening/Night Prayer together

Eternal Father, we want to live as Jesus, Mary, and Joseph,

in peace with you and with one another.

Strengthen us to face the troubles of life

and to acknowledge the goodness of one another.

We ask this through Christ Our Lord.

Questions for Action for the week

For your marriage: What do you like best about your wife as a mother, your husband as a father? Write out a list and share it with each other this week.

For others: Think of some group that is committed to supporting family life in the Church and the world. How could you help them this week?