As we begin October, the month of the Holy Rosary, we celebrate St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus—a saint who reminds us that holiness is not found in great deeds, but in doing ordinary things with extraordinary love. This is a message families deeply need today.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus says simply: “Follow me.” Not "Follow me when the kids are older," or "Follow me after you finish your degree," or "Follow me when life settles down." Just follow me—now, in the midst of everything.
Like Nehemiah facing ruins, many families today feel overwhelmed: broken relationships, overloaded schedules, children drifting from faith. The walls of family life can feel as though they are crumbling. Yet Scripture says: “The favoring hand of my God was upon me.” When Nehemiah responded with a sincere heart, God provided—step by step. And He will do the same for us.
The Gift of the Rosary
One of the greatest gifts God has given to strengthen families is the Rosary.
Though St. Thérèse never had a family of her own, her “Little Way” speaks powerfully to family life. She wrote: “Love proves itself by deeds... every little sacrifice, every glance and word.” Everyday family moments—cooking, helping with homework, listening, caring for children—can all become scattered flowers of love, simple acts of following Christ.
The Rosary reflects this same “Little Way.” Small beads, repeated prayers, simple words—yet offered with great love. It does not demand perfection or silence. It can be prayed in the car, while folding laundry, or even with a crying child in your arms.
This October, inspired by Pope Leo, we turn especially to the Rosary as a prayer for peace—in our hearts, our families, our communities, our nations, and our world. As part of this effort, we invite you to join us online or in person for the Global Rosary for Peace on October 22 at 10 AM ET. Details and links are available on our Family Rosary social media platforms.
The mysteries of the Rosary reflect every aspect of family life:
- Joyful: welcoming life, financial struggles, parental worries.
- Luminous: bringing Christ into daily routines and celebrations.
- Sorrowful: carrying burdens, facing misunderstandings and pain.
- Glorious: living in hope of resurrection and eternal life.
Through these mysteries, Christ enters our homes.
Pray the Rosary
Jesus calls families to a simple but radical act: pray the Rosary—together, even imperfectly. Not necessarily a perfect twenty minutes each evening, but maybe:
- One decade upon waking, or while getting ready.
- One decade on the way to school.
- A few Hail Marys before dinner, with family intentions.
- Rosaries placed visibly around the home.
- Teaching children one mystery at a time.
God does not ask for perfection, only a willing heart.
When families pray together—even in small, stumbling ways—God’s favor rests upon them. Grace flows. Mary intercedes. Christ draws near.
As we celebrate this Eucharist, let us take courage from St. Thérèse: the smallest acts, done with great love, can transform the world. Let us take up the Rosary this October—not as a burden, but as God’s gift to rebuild family life, one bead at a time.
St. Thérèse promised: “After my death, I will let fall a shower of roses.” May she shower your family with grace today.
“The family that prays together stays together.” —Venerable Patrick Peyton
- 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 the 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.)
.jpg "Father Pinto Paul, C.S.C.")