Bulletin Announcement: Erie
A Family Perspective 4-21-2024
Use this in your 04/21/2024 bulletin
Today’s gospel is a job description for Christian parents. For most people the most influential shepherd in their lives is a parent. Every parent is called to be a “good shepherd” to “freely lay down their life” for their children, to “love” and “know” their children and to “lead” them so “they know your voice.”
Child Protection 4-21-2024
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments
Child Abuse Prevention Month: National CyberTipline: The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s CyberTipline is the nation’s centralized reporting system for the online exploitation of children. Anyone can make reports of suspected online enticement of children for sexual acts, molestation, child pornography, child sex tourism, child sex trafficking (includes prostitution), child sextortion and unsolicited obscene materials sent to a child. Misleading domain names, misleading words or digital images on the internet can also be reported to the CyberTipline. All tips are reviewed to find a potential location for the reported incident. It is then made available to the appropriate law-enforcement agency for possible investigation. NCMEC provides resources/help in removing an online image. Reports can be made 24/7 online at www.cybertipline.org or by calling (800) 843-5678.
Marriage Moment 4-21-2024
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Earth Day is April 22. This year April 22 is also the first day of Passover. In marriage often one partner knows more about a topic than the other. Perhaps each of you could google one of these and update the other. Learn from each other.
Parenting Pointers 4-21-2024
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April 22 is Earth Day. (https://www.earthday.org/planet-vs-plastics/) Take stock of what your family already recycles (paper, plastic, cans…) Good! Can you add one more thing to recycle? Better yet, commit to avoid buying something that needs recycling, especially plastic.
4-21-2024 Thank you from CRS Rice Bowl
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THANK YOU!
Together, we changed lives this Lent through CRS Rice Bowl. THANK YOU for being a part of this effort! Don’t forget to turn in your CRS Rice Bowl at [LOCATION] on [DATE].
Continuing Education Opportunity!
Use this in your 04/21/2024 bulletin
Continuing Education Opportunity: Catholic Social Justice Teacher: Secret Identity or Superhero?
Join us for a morning presentation on Catholic Social Teaching by Elizabeth Slaby, Director of the Office of Social Justice and Life for Catholic Charities of Erie, sponsored by the Faith Formation Office. There are three opportunities to hear Liz speak – May 7, 8 or 14. See the attached flier for venues across the diocese. Everyone is welcome to join us for the presentation. The cost is $20 and includes lunch. For more information, contact Mary Hickin at 814-824-1222. CEO Day flier
A Family Perspective 4-28-2024
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Like the vine grower in today’s gospel, parents must “prune and cleanse” the branches in their family if their children are going to be rooted. Discipline, limits and setting goals are a necessary part of parenting so our children will grow and “bear fruit.”
Child Protection 4-28-2024
Use this in your 04/28/2024 bulletin
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments
Child Abuse Prevention Month: Recent statistics tell us one out of every ten children will be abused before they turn 18. 91% of sexual abuse is perpetrated by someone the child or the child’s family knows. This means that on every Sunday in our congregation there are people who have been abused and may continue to experience the pain of that abuse. Reaching out to those who have suffered from abuse is critical in bringing hope and the love of Christ to them. Assistance is available for victims/survivors of clergy sexual abuse by contacting the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator, Dr. Gerard Tobin at 814-451-1521.
Parenting Pointers 4-28-2024
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Chores #2: Two weeks ago, I suggested discussing who does what chores around the house. Were any decisions made to change jobs? Are your kids complaining or too busy to help at home? Have a family meeting and make a plan you can all live with.
Marriage Moment 4-28-2024
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Praying together is good, but your schedule and style of prayer may not match. For a start, try picking a specific and regular time each day to say a prayer for your beloved, perhaps when you start the car, wash your hands, brush your teeth, etc. Try it.
A Family Perspective 5-5-2024
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Today’s gospel challenges us to “love one another as I have loved you.” Jesus is our model and he asks us to “lay down our life” (our time, attention, opinions and needs) for each other. This is the sacrament of the family, when God is made visible in our sacrificial love for one another.
Marriage Moment 5-5-2024
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Remembering may become more difficult with aging, but that doesn’t mean we should allow ourselves to forget. May 6 is Holocaust Remembrance Day. (https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/introduction-to-the-holocaust). Regardless of whether you are of Jewish or German heritage, take time today to remember the challenging and joyous times of your life and marriage.
Parenting Pointers 5-5-2024
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Screen Free week (https://nationaltoday.com/screen-free-week/) If your child is old enough for school, they’ve probably spent a lot of class time on computer screens. Weather permitting, offer them a Nature Break this weekend - or at least some indoor art, craft, or board game alternatives.
A Family Perspective 5-12-2024
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Jesus was worried about his disciples and he turned to prayer. No matter how much time we spent trying to “guard and protect” our children, each day they become less dependent on us and we must let go and let God. Prayer and parenting go together.
Child Protection 5-12-2024
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Digital Safety and Your Child: If your child gives out personal information while online, it is easy to track and tough to completely remove. Teach your child to never share personal information such as full name, address, phone number, email, school, or birthday on any social media site. Teach them to never give anyone their passwords. Help your child set up strong passwords and do a yearly checkup on them. Adjust privacy settings for online games, apps, social media sites and your child’s electronic devices. Don’t forget to check the GPS settings ability to unintentionally share your child’s location. Avoid using pubic wi-fi when sharing personal information. For additional resources visit www.eriercd.org/childprotection/
Parenting Pointers 5-12-2024
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Everyone has a mother. Many of us are mothers ourselves. Your child will learn how to honor his/her mother by watching how you honor yours. Whether your own mother is alive or dead, share with your child something you appreciate about your mother today.
Marriage Moment 5-12-2024
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(Mother’s Day) Of course if you are alive you were born of a mother. Maybe you are also a mother to children of your own. As you remember your own mother this week, give gratitude for lessons learned and to your beloved spouse who joins you in loving.
A Family Perspective 5-19-2024
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Today, on Pentecost, we remember Christ has given us the Holy Spirit to assist us in raising our family and he expects us to use this personal gift. Let’s set aside the distractions in our lives and let the Holy Spirit “guide us to the truth.”
Parenting Pointers 5-19-2024
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Who do your kids hang out with? Friends have a big influence on us. Invite your child’s friends to your home. Offer to take your child and a friend to a sporting event or other fun activity. Show you care not only for your own child but for their friends too.
Marriage Moment 5-19-2024
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“Marriage is wonderful. Don't ruin it with unrealistic expectations. Learn what your marriage truly can and cannot be. Hint: Don't take your cues from Hollywood.” (Mark Gungor, Laugh Your Way America) So, from where do you take YOUR cues – your parents? friends? experience? your faith?
A Family Perspective 5-26-2024
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In today’s gospel Jesus says, “Teach them to observe everything I have commanded you.” For parents, this is both mission and ministry as all children form their foundation of faith from their parents. Jesus commands all parents to teach their children “all that I have commanded you.”
Marriage Moment 5-27-2024
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On Memorial Day we remember those who have defended our freedom. But freedom is bigger than winning a war. Marriage can free us to stop searching for perfection - to stop putting up a front, to risk being our truest, best self because we are loved unconditionally.
Parenting Pointers 5-26-2024
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Chores #1: As a parent what’s your favorite household job? What’s your least favorite? Few kids like chores but it’s part of being a family. Talk with your kids about their preferences. Discuss whether anybody wants to switch their current tasks.
A Family Perspective 6-2-2024
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One gets the impression there was always a lot of sharing, discussion and learning during the many meals Jesus and the disciples ate together. How does this compare to the meals in your home? Today’s gospel challenges us to make our meals more than physical functions and more a time for sharing.
A Family Perspective 6-9-2024
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Jesus reminds us in today’s gospel “a house divided against itself will not stand.” Are the tensions and issues which divide your home worth the struggle? Even if you win an argument you lose a relationship. Don’t let pride and pettiness divide your home.
Child Protection 6-9-2024
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Stay Safe While Gaming Online. Online gaming can be lots of fun and pretty cool to compete against people from every corner of the world. Gaming can also expose your child to dangers such as cyber bullying, online harassment, and online predators. Here are some helpful tips to teach your children to ensure they are being safe while gaming. 1. Never give your identity. When creating an account, use a nickname. When creating an avatar, don’t use your real picture. 2. Do not give out any personal information including phone numbers, addresses, where you go to school, and especially your age. Predators pretend to be teenagers and will talk to your child until your child feels they are safe to talk to about personal stuff. 3. Have your child mute conversations. People say mean things to one another and it’s best to prevent the risk of bullying or trash talking online. 4. Block anyone who makes you feel uncomfortable. 5. Set appropriate parental controls and use parental controls to facilitate online safety and time management. For additional resources visit www.eriercd.org/childprotection/
A Family Perspective 6-16-2024
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Parenting is a lot like the story of the farmer in the gospel parable today. All growth is the Lord’s work. We have no control over the process. In fact the farmer doesn’t even understand it, for the seed grows even when he sleeps. As parents we can influence our children but can’t guarantee results.
A Family Perspective 6-23-2024
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Following the will of God is not always the most popular thing to do according to some peers. Even parents face this fact from time to time. What is popular is not always what is right; and what is right, is not always popular. Elizabeth and Zechariah got it ‘right’, despite the pressure of neighbors. Do we?
A Family Perspective 6-30-2024
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The healing of the woman and the child in today’s gospel is a reminder we are all wounded. We retreat to those we love looking for acceptance, listening, understanding and support. Families must be healing communities where Jesus is present in our care for one another.
Parenting Pointers 6-30-2024
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As summer vacation time comes, outdoor activities usually increase – but there are also rainy days. Be prepared with quiet reading areas and interesting child friendly books, art & craft possibilities so they don’t just revert to the TV or their phone.
A Family Perspective 7-7-2024
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Today’s gospel is so familiar, it hurts! The home town folks couldn’t accept the presence of God in Jesus. After all, they had watched him grow up. We can easily make the same mistake if we don’t see God present in the ordinary members of our family. “The Lord be with you” is a statement of fact. Believe it.
A Family Perspective 7-14-2024
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Jesus sent out His apostles without a lot of “things” because THINGS distract. We collect, argue about and protect our “things.” We even ignore each other because we have “things” to do. What “things” are separating you from your family?
A Family Perspective 7-21-2024
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In today’s gospel “the apostles gathered around and told Jesus all they had done.” Listening allows the other person to express, understand and appreciate their experiences. Whether it is the excited chatter of young child or the repetitious stories of an aging grandparent, listening is important. It is not just time well spent, it is sacred time.
A Family Perspective 7-28-2024
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In today’s gospel Phillip worried about “enough food” for the crowd. What is ENOUGH? When does our ENOUGH deprive another family of their fair share? Jesus performed today’s miracle because one child was willing to share and risk living with less. Can your family live more simply so that other families can simply live?
A Family Perspective 8-4-2024
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In today’s gospel Jesus tells us: “Do not work for what perishes.” Give your life to what endures such as the family history you are creating, the love and mutual respect which bonds you together, the memories you share and the forgiveness generously given. These are the true treasures that are worth working and dying for.
A Family Perspective 8-11-2024
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“Stop murmuring” Jesus told the disciples in today’s gospel. Complaining is a dead-end; constant complaining is nagging. We might feel better but others feel bitter. Silence or grumbling will not resolve the problem. Address differences honestly and respectfully. Don’t make them personal attacks.
Child Protection 8-11-2024
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Diocesan Requirements for working with children: Working alongside the Bishop, the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth reinforces the ongoing implementation of policies and procedures that protect children. All clergy, employees, and volunteers in the Diocese of Erie who work with children must undergo criminal record checks. The diocesan Policy for the Protection of Children and Youth screening guidelines and abuse prevention training programs emphasize the importance of knowing the employees and volunteers who have access to children in our schools and parishes. Parents should remain vigilant in insisting that those with access to their children have gone through an application process and obtained the required clearances and trainings before being granted access to their children. Visit www.eriercd.org/childprotection/ to see what is required for those who work with children and youth in our parishes/schools/agencies.
A Family Perspective 8-18-2024
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In today’s Gospel Jesus speaks of his flesh and blood as life-giving. Parents can identify with this, for they often feel the physical demands of family life; yet children grow in the soil of sacrificial love. Parenting is not part time work. It is a consuming lifetime commitment.
A Family Perspective 8-25-2024
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Even though many found the teachings of Jesus “difficult”, He did not back down. In our families it is important to say what is difficult to hear, to speak the truth with kindness, to correct with love and guide with understanding.
A Family Perspective 9-1-2024
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In today’s gospel Jesus warns “what comes from within can defile” a person. Families need to worry about “outside influences” but also about “inside influences.” The values our children carry for a life time are learned at home. Habits of the Hearth are the most powerful influences on a child. That can be good or bad news, depending on what’s being learned!
Child Protection 9-8-2024
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**Note: Please mail/email the September Parish Bulletin containing the September announcement to the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth.
Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Diocesan Child Protection Policies: The Diocese of Erie, is committed to protecting minors who are entrusted to our care. The Diocese has policies and procedures in place to address the national problem of child abuse, to aid in the prevention of abuse and to develop and maintain safe environments. All those who minister to minors are screened, trained, and agree to a Code of Conduct. To read the Policy that includes the Code of Conduct, go to: https://www.eriercd.org/childprotection/policies-1.html For more information, contact the diocesan Office for the Protection of Children and Youth at 814-824-1195.
A Family Perspective 9-8-2024
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Deafness abounds not only when we cannot hear, but when we refuse to listen. Before Jesus can enter your home and heal, you must first recognize your deafness. Have trouble speaking your thoughts? Try choosing loving words, even if the message might be a difficult one to say. All things said in love are easier to hear and accept.
A Family Perspective 9-15-2024
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If commitment is the choice we make to give up other choices, then it is about “losing ourselves”. If we try to be independent from others by “saving ourselves”, we end up lonely and alone. Happiness is found in commitments. The gospel is true: We save our life by losing it!
A Family Perspective 9-22-2024
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Disagreements are common in families. But what would you say if Jesus posed the same question “What are you arguing about?” Is it silly and petty? Is it an attempt to impose your will and control on another, or to really solve a problem? Today Jesus tells us and his disciples to give it up. We are meant to serve each other, not control.
A Family Perspective 9-29-24
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The words in today’s gospel, “Whoever gives a cup of water in the name of Christ will not lose their reward” hits us at home. As parents we gain our “reward” when we bring a bottle to a crying infant in the middle of the night, or juice boxes to parched five-year olds, or hold ice chips to the fevered lips of a spouse. It is that simple and that sacred. In our homes we give until it hurts “in the name of Christ.’
A Family Perspective 10-6-2024
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Perhaps Jesus’ two-fold message in today’s gospel is a reminder to married couples to return to the innocence of the early years of their love—like children, loving each other with abandon. Do you know any couple who have recently married? Their love is contagious, and glowing, right? Married couples are called to be a sacramental reflection of God’s faithful and selfless love ….. a place where people live and love beyond rules and formulas.
Child Protection 10-13-2024
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments – Is Your Child Street Smart? Being street smart means knowing how to keep yourself safe from strangers when you’re alone or with other kids. When your street smart you know your way around, you know how to handle yourself in tough situations and you can “read” people. Teach your child who are strangers - (-anyone they do not know or kind of know- and to never approach a strangers vehicle. Teach to your child to always tell you where they are. Teach your child to always go with a friend or two whether walking to school, bike riding or going to the store. Pick out safe spots where your child can go and get help. Places like police stations, stores, restaurants. Teach them how to spot safe places on their route and to avoid places that aren’t safe. Finally, teach your child to trust their instincts and to make a lot of noise if they are scared. For more information visit www.kidshealth.org. For additional resources visit www.eriercd.org/childprotection
A Family Perspective 10-13-2024
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Having possessions is an illusion. In today’s gospel Jesus told the young man to give up his need to control and put his trust in God. He couldn’t let go! In families our need to control destroys relationships. We can lead, teach and encourage, but we can’t control anyone but ourselves.
A Family Perspective 10-20-2024
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While many good books abound on marriage and parenting, Jesus tells us in today’s gospel the real secret: satisfying relationships depend on how well we sacrifice our needs to serve others. It is not about “getting,” it’s about “giving” ourselves.
A Family Perspective 10-27-2024
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When Jesus asked the blind man “What do you want from me?” he asked for sight. If Jesus asked you the same question, what would you say? Pure and simple, that is prayer.
A Family Perspective 11-3-2024
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In a family, children are taught to be respectful if they want to be respected, to share, if they want their fair share and to listen if they want to be heard. Family life rescues us from arrogance by teaching us to love others as we love ourselves.
Child Protection 11-10-2024
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Bullying is defined as any unwanted aggressive behavior by another youth or group of youths that involves an observed or perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times or is highly likely to be repeated. 20% of youth ages 12-18 experience bullying. When adults respond quickly to bullying behavior, they send the message that bullying is not acceptable. There are ways parents can make a positive difference. Parents can educate themselves on the signs that a child is being bullied or is a bully. Parents should keep the lines of communication open with their child and model for their child how to treat others. Encourage your child to be inclusive by welcoming others to join their activities and groups. For more information on how to prevent bullying in your community visit www.stopbullying.org.
For additional resources visit www.eriercd.org/childprotection
A Family Perspective 11-10-2024
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The widow in today’s gospel gave only a little, but it counted for a lot. In our homes there are many LITTLE MOMENTS which can have great significance and glue the family together. Seize these moments.
A Family Perspective 11-17-2024
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Today’s gospel teaches us UNCERTAINTY is normal. There are some things in life which “no one knows … only the Father.” Marriage and parenting are full of uncertainty for like the fig tree in the gospel, the people we love grow and change.
A Family Perspective 11-24-2024
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When we are young, our parents “tell us about Jesus” and we believe what our parents believe. At some point we must leave our parents faith and ask Pilate’s question: “Are you the King?’ Pilate is just asking these questions on our behalf.
A Family Perspective 12-1-2024
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At this time of the year we are very conscious of our family as we make preparations for Christmas. Today’s gospel warns us not to be consumed by all the consumer activity. This Advent appreciates the gift of people in your life. The best gift this season might be your appreciation of others.
Child Protection 12-8-2024
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Child Protection and Creating Safe Environments- Be Vigilant: It is vitally important that we are constantly vigilant concerning the behaviors of those who interact with children and communicating our concerns to the appropriate parties. Each one of us can play an important role in strengthening this culture of prevention. For example, we can better prevent abuse by ensuring that the signs of abuse are identified and reported. Noticing these warning signs, taking them seriously, and reporting them could prevent abuse in the future. When we witness inappropriate behavior or something that just doesn’t seem quite right, we must report our concerns through the appropriate channels. For particular questions in the Diocese of Erie, you may call the Office for the Protection of Children and Youth at 814-824-1195.
A Family Perspective 12-8-2024
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Today’s gospel shows John the Baptist and parents have similar vocations. Like the Baptist, parents are asked to make “rough ways smooth” and to “prepare the way of the Lord” for their families. This Advent ask: “Does my life hinder or help my family to know Jesus?”
A Family Perspective 12-15-2024
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Today’s gospel tells us to SHARE! This Christmas resist the pressure to give token gifts. Instead, use those funds to give NESSITITIES to the poor. If our impoverished brothers and sisters are not on our gift list, we’ve missed the point of Christmas.
A Family Perspective 12-22-2024
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Mary was excited about her first pregnancy and rushed to tell her cousin. Sadly children are often seen as a liability, “another mouth to feed” or an “obstacle to my career.” It is said “Christmas is for children.” It is more accurate to say “Christmas is for adults to appreciate the gift of children!”
A Family Perspective 12-29-2024
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Today’s gospel contains this truth about parenting: “but his parents did not know.” One of the reasons parenting is so difficult is because our children don’t tell us everything. If the Holy Family had trouble with their teenager, why do we think it will be easier for us?
A Family Perspective 1-5-2025
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After meeting Jesus, the Magi returned home by “another way.” What in your family needs to be done “another way?” Do you need “another way to resolve differences, to communicate or show affection? This is a new year, time to change what isn’t working. Take a tip from some wise men, there’s always “another way.”
A Family Perspective 1-12-2025
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In today’s gospel Jesus was publicly AFFIRMED by his Father: “You are my beloved son, with you I am very pleased.” As parents we can become so focused on misbehaviors we overlook the good behaviors. Jesus needed AFFIRMATION and so do our children.
A Family Perspective 1-19-2025
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At Cana we get a good insight into Mary’s parenting style. She did not plead, argue, demand or manipulate. She merely pointed out the situation and trusted her son would make the best decision.
A Family Perspective 1-26-2025
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In today’s gospel Jesus was “praised by all” except at home in Nazareth where the “eyes of all were intently on him.” Acceptance can be hard to find at home due to unreal EXPECTATIONS. Jesus challenges us to “proclaim liberty” to anyone “oppressed” or “captive’ by our EXPECTATIONS.