The Holy Family

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Take a moment to look around the church some time. You will see families of all sizes, shapes, and descriptions. Some are the biological variety, with a dad and mom and children of different ages. Some may be blended or adopted, foster families or families with only one parent in the home. Sometimes it is grandparents who open their homes to their grandchildren, or siblings who share an apartment and function as a family. Maybe the time has come for an elderly relative to move into your home.

One’s family should be the best place to learn and practice the virtues that Paul outlines in his letter to the Colossians mercy, kindness, bearing with one another, patience and forgiveness. It is in our families that we can experience joy, celebration, and love. The family is the basic unit of our parish, and each one is important to the whole. We need each other.

As Catholics, we can look to the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph as a model for our families to emulate. Whatever our age, whatever our role in the family, the Holy Family speaks to all of us of unity, loyalty, and humility before God. Joseph, Mary, and Jesus cared for each other and trusted completely in God. They were open to his grace at work in their lives and supported one another in times of trial and suffering. In our world today, as the family is under attack from many sides, this is just the example that can keep us focused on the ultimate goal for our families. That goal is to help each other grow in holiness and grace before our Almighty Father.