« back to all posts

Bringing up Children in the Family of God

Bringing up Children in the Family of God

Strengthening family unity  |  Celebrating family life

Today as we are celebrating the feast of the presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we are reminded of Mary’s unique role in God’s saving work and how we might enjoy and share in it.

 

Recently, Fr. Willy, Fr. Gaspar and I visited a family with seven children, ages 13 years through three months, and their parents. When we left one of us said, “Being with that family was the best and the most fulfilling experience.”

The members showed good relationships and functioned smoothly. The home was filled joy. They eat meals together, say grace before meals, and do not watch television during their meals. We learned that the family prays together regularly. Each member, even the little ones has a patron Saint to whom they pray. They also know the stories about this Saint. In spite of daily chores and struggles, they seem to be having healthy relationships.

This family was showing that God is dwelling among them, that they are responding to His invitation as Mary did, and they are living as members of the family of God.

How do you and your family enjoy and share in God’s saving work?

About Father Pinto Paul, C.S.C.

Father Pinto Paul, C.S.C., Ph.D., serves as the International Director of Holy Cross Family Ministries (HCFM). In this role, he provides leadership and support to HCFM ministries in 18 countries across 6 continents, helping advance the mission of strengthening family prayer, faith formation, and spiritual life around the world. Originally from Kerala, India, Father Pinto spent ten years as a missionary in Tripura with the Northeast Province of the Congregation of Holy Cross. Before his appointment as International Director, he served as Special Assistant to the President of Holy Cross Family Ministries. He also ministered for six years in Campus Ministry at Stonehill College, accompanying students in their faith formation, leadership development, and spiritual growth.