Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph

'Today, the Holy Spirit continues to guide “all peoples”, “all couples”, “all parents”. But we need to listen to the Spirit who speaks in us. If the Son of God came to live with us as a child, and only the eyes of faith can perceive His presence, how important it is to remind ourselves that everyday things are never of little importance, that daily occurrences are never useless or purely coincidental. The eyes of faith are necessary to grasp the hidden and the beyond. Everything becomes a “place” to encounter or reject God’s presence. Everything is a sign for those who believe.'

Extract from Vatican News on the Feast of the Holy Family 2023

For the complete article and closing prayer “The hidden life of Nazareth” click HERE

Readings

The First Reading, Psalm and Second Reading from Year A may be used with the Gospel of the current liturgical year (Year B)

First Reading: Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14 OR Genesis 15:1-6, 21:1-3

Psalm: 128 OR 105

Second Reading: Colossians 3:12-21 OR Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19

Gospel: Luke 2:22-40 or 2:39-40 (long form); 2:22, 39-40 (short form.)

The child grew to maturity, and he was filled with wisdom.

Suggestions for Prayers of Intercession

For praying together as a family: that the Spirit will help to guide us to a deeper prayer life by raising our awareness to the daily experiences of 'God with us' and by listening closely in the quiet of our hearts to the voice of unconditional love.

E te Ariki,  R. Whakarongo mai rā kia a mātou.

For mentors, teachers, parents and friends: that their role in helping us to grow into mature faith will affirm and encourage efforts to use our gifts wisely.

E te Ariki...R. Whakarongo mai rā kia a mātou.

For our senior citizens: that like Simeon and Anna in the Temple, they will remain constant and loving in their service to their community and continue to be exemplars of a strong prayer life.

E te Ariki... R. Whakarongo mai rā kia a mātou.

Let us pray for all the families in the world: especially those in which, for various reasons, peace and harmony are lacking. Let us entrust them to the protection of the Holy Family of Nazareth.

E te Ariki … R. Whakarongo mai rā kia a mātou.

Pope Francis recognized that every family has its problems, and that at times, because we are human, because we are weak, we even fight within the family. “I want to tell you one thing,” the Pope said: “If we fight in the family, never end the day without making peace.” Once again, he recommended three words that should be common in every family: “please,” “thank you,” and “I’m sorry.” If these three words are present in the family, he said, the family will be in good shape.

Pope Francis from the Sunday Angelus 27 Dec 2020