Today, we celebrated the Feast of the Holy Family and the Jubilee of Families, the last in this Jubilee Year of Hope. In honour of these milestones, our parish couples—led by the Marriage Encounter —took an active role in the liturgy at both Masses, offering their gifts in service to the Lord.
In his homily, Fr. Martin reflected on the many trials the Holy Family endured: from the uncertainty of Mary’s pregnancy to the humble birth in a stable, the flight to Egypt, and the anxiety of losing Jesus in Jerusalem. Yet, as Fr. Martin reminded us, the Holy Family persevered because Jesus was always at the centre. He invited every couple to invite Jesus into the heart of their own marriages.
Representing Marriage Encounter Circle, John and Dorothy Mangaawuma called on Christian families to be “agents and pilgrims of hope.” They encouraged families to journey together in faith toward eternal life through acts of charity, forgiveness, prayer, and the passing of Christian values to the next generation.
During Mass, all married couples stood to renew their wedding vows and receive a special blessing from the Parish Priest. Fr Martin also presented a certificate to the couple of Austin and Jennie Madinga, who are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary this year.
May we all strive to make our homes a reflection of the Holy Family.