The Holy Family of Nazareth serves as the perfect model for family life and what our own families can aspire to be. Let us pray for the intercession of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, asking them to guide our families and help us to live in the light of their holy example.

 

Here are some qualities that every family striving for holiness can cultivate through divine grace according to Fr. Maurice Emelu.

• Reverence for God- God is the center of their lives

• Honor and respect -Honoring parents brings blessings such as forgiveness, fruitfulness, and longevity. These actions reflect the family’s commitment to God’s design for harmony and respect.

• Compassion and forgiveness -Compassion, patience, and forgiveness bind a family in love, the bond of perfection.

• Sacrificial love -Sacrificial love means putting the needs of others above one’s own for the sake of a greater good. Parents often embody this by making sacrifices for their children’s needs, education, well-being, and future.

• Peace and gratitude -A holy family lets the peace of Christ rule in their hearts and fosters a spirit of gratitude. Peace reflects God’s presence and holiness.Celebrating each other’s strengths and contributions fosters lasting harmony. Agree to disagree in homes. 

• Obedience and humility -Obedience strengthens holiness. Jesus shows this by submitting to Mary and Joseph.  Both parents and children grow in humility by placing God’s will above all.

• Responsibility and care -A holy family takes responsibility for one another, especially the elderly and vulnerable.God rewards acts of compassion. He remembers them with mercy and blessings.

• Love as the foundation - Above all, love unites a holy family. Love is the bond of perfection and the fulfillment of God’s commandment to love one another.