Feast of the Holy Family -- December 31 2023

Today we celebrate the Holy Family. Over and over again, history shows us that as the family goes, so goes society. We may be feeling like families in our world are struggling right now, and we'd be correct. How can we correct this trend? By following the example of the most perfect family ever, Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. In light of confusion over the recent Papal statements, and especially because this Sunday is about family, I include here and in the show Bishop Barron's comments: On Monday, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, with the approval of Pope Francis, published a declaration entitled Fiducia Supplicans, which has given rise to a good deal of commentary and controversy. The document allows for the possibility of blessing those in irregular or same-sex relationships. Despite some misleading reporting in the media, Fiducia Supplicans in no way sanctions irregular bonds or changes the Church's teaching on marriage and sexuality. It further specifies that no liturgical blessing can be offered to those in such unions, but rather an informal pastoral blessing. This latter benediction is a calling forth of the diving grace to help those who receive it to live more fully in accord with God's will and to enhance whatever is good, true, and beautiful in their lives. I believe that the declaration is very much congruent with the pastoral instincts of Pope Francis, who always wants to remind those who are living the Christian life in a less than perfect way that they are, nevertheless loved and cherished by God. To all of Jesus' brothers and sisters, the Church should never fail to be a source of welcome, compassion, and blessing.