Feast of the Holy Family

Photo courtesy of CBCP News

Every Sunday after Christmas, the Universal Church celebrates the feast of the Holy Family – Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Reflecting on this feast, Pope Francis during the Angelus explained how the message that comes from the Holy Family is a message of faith. “The family of Nazareth,” he said, “is holy because it is centered on Jesus.”

Pope Francis said the infant Jesus with his mother Mary and with St. Joseph are a shining example of mercy and salvation for the entire world.  “This light which comes from the Holy Family encourages us to offer human warmth in those family situation in which, for various reasons, there is a lack of peace and harmony and forgiveness. Our concrete solidarity is just as present, especially when it comes to families who are undergoing difficult situations because of illness, lack of work, discrimination and the need to emigrate.”

The Pope also said “his thoughts are with those on board the missing AirAsia plane that disappeared during a flight between Indonesia and Singapore.”  “I am close with my affection and prayer,” the Pope said, to the families and loved ones who are undergoing “these difficult situations with apprehension and suffering” and also to those involved in the rescue operations.