The Holy Family's Invitation - Weekday Homily Video

Brothers and sisters in Christ, in today's world, families face countless challenges – from the busyness of modern life to the distractions of technology, from the pressure to conform to societal expectations to the struggles of maintaining faith amidst secularism.

Yet, amidst these challenges, there's a beacon of hope, a model of love and resilience: the Holy Family. Pope Francis' Apostolic Exhortation, Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love) begins with the statement, “The joy of love experienced by the families is also the joy of the Church.” He further states “Every family should look to the icon of the Holy Family of Nazareth.” 

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph lived a life rooted in faith, love, and service to God's will. While their circumstances were different, their values and the joy they found in each other offer timeless wisdom for families today. Today in the gospel, Jesus calls us to be part of his family, not through bloodline but through living in accordance with God's will. 

The Holy Family shows us that a happier, healthier, and holier family is not an unattainable ideal but a possibility within our grasp. Their lives reveal five key sources of joy that can transform our homes: 

Attaining Happiness, Health, and Holiness

1. The Joy of Unconditional Love: In a world that often values conditional love, the Holy Family reminds us of the transformative power of loving without limits, just as God loves us. 
2. The Joy of Sharing and Caring: In an age of individualism, the Holy Family's model of shared lives, shared resources, and shared burdens offers a path to deeper connection and fulfillment. 
3. The Joy of Praying Together: In the midst of our hectic schedules, making time for family prayer, even in simple ways, can create a sacred space where we encounter God together. 
4. The Joy of Forgiveness: In a world quick to judge and hold grudges, the Holy Family's example of forgiveness shows us the path to healing and reconciliation in our relationships. 
5. The Joy of Healing and Growth: Our families are meant to be places where we nurture each other's physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being, just as Mary and Joseph nurtured Jesus. 
   
   

How do we bring these joys into our modern families? 

• Embrace God's Word: Let the Bible be our guide, illuminating our path and providing wisdom for our daily lives. 

• Welcome the Holy Spirit: Invite the Holy Spirit into our homes, seeking His guidance and comfort as we navigate the complexities of family life. 

• Embrace Our Circumstances: We should see the challenges and joys of our daily lives as opportunities for growth, trusting in God's plan for our families. 

Take Comfort in the Journey

Building a happier, healthier, and holier family is a journey, not a destination. It requires intentionality, effort, and a willingness to learn from the Holy Family's example. But the rewards are immeasurable – a deeper love for one another, a stronger connection to God, and a life overflowing with joy. 

Heavenly Father, we ask through the intercession of Mary, our Mother, that our families may be beacons of your love and joy in the modern world. Help us to live out the values of the Holy Family so that our homes may be places of healing, growth, and unwavering faith.

• Today’s Readings

• Father Pinto's inspirational homily was recorded live during Mass at the Father Peyton Center this morning. You can view the Mass (and Rosary) at the 30-minute mark on the Family Rosary YouTube page. 

• To join the Rosary and Mass Livestream, visit the Family Rosary YouTube or Facebook page at 11:30 a.m. Eastern, Monday – Friday. Consider inviting others to join too! (*If you are not a member of Facebook and a signup window appears, simply select the X at the top of the pop-up message and continue to the livestream.)