Family, Love, Prayer

Dearest Ones,

Nothing is more precious than love in a family. It can be easy to forget that love keeps marriages alive, not chores, getting meals, etc. It can be easy for a couple to take each other for granted. Sometimes because of the death of a spouse, service in the military, illness, or some other reason, one spouse may be called upon by God to be both mother and father. This does not mean a single parent cannot do the job of two, because God will give the graces necessary to do this.

Jesus' presence in a marriage brings with it numerous blessings. Jesus wants spouses to turn to Him for guidance in their marriages. Parents need all the help they can get. If I was a parent, I would be afraid not to pray the rosary each day for my family. (I do pray the Rosary each day for all of you because you are my family!) Sometimes I don't feel like it but our Mother Mary has asked us to do it, so I must. I ask our Mary and my guardian angel to help me to pray the rosary. Some feel it is boring or monotonous and is only for children, but then why did our Mother Mary come to the earth to so many people, asking them to pray the Rosary? Some who don't pray the rosary, end up not saying any other prayers either.

"Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them." (Matthew 18:20) Not only is Jesus present when a family prays together, but also, there are many angels and saints. With Jesus in their midst, how can a family go wrong? Don't wait until the children are teenagers before gathering together for family prayer - it may be too late then, as teens tend to go toward their friends and find all kinds of excuses not to be with the family. Some day, parents will die, and their children will be left only with memories. What kind of memories will they have of family prayer? One hour a week at church on Sunday is not enough.

If family prayer is hard to get started because of watching ball games on TV, or various activities, then have a family get together and decide on a time when all can be present. This may seem impossible, but all things are possible with God. Remember the devil is going to do everything possible to keep a family from praying together. Call on the Holy Spirit to guide and help you. He will do it - give Him a chance. Have the family prayer time planned specifically. For example, if you choose to pray the rosary, decide which mysteries you want to use ahead of time and if the children are going to take turns leading the mysteries....if the child who is leading the rosary is going to name the intention (either thanking God for something or asking for a favor) before each Hail Mary, etc. Even small children can be taught to do this. Someone may read a short passage from the Bible. Singing is always pleasing in a prayer session. These are all suggestions and your family may already have scheduled prayer. If so, that's great! Please don't think I'm bossing you around.

It is best to insist that all are quiet and in a kneeling position (they may wish to lean on a chair, I can remember doing that.) It helps to have a picture of Jesus or Mary in the middle of the group. A small altar with a picture and a candle helps the atmosphere, when praying. These are only suggestions, each family will choose their own surroundings and a fitting time to pray. Our family used to pray after the evening meal, before everyone scattered. Believe me, it was not easy to find a time. Start small - maybe once a week, at first. Maybe on Sunday, the Lord's day. When a couple begins to pray, read the Bible together, and try to stay close to Jesus, good things begin to happen.

Sometimes, a discussion helps. For example: A parent could ask:
- How could our family show more love to each other?
- What does it mean to be a family?
- Did anyone see an act of kindness today?
- Did you feel sorry for anyone today? Did you help them?
- Did you do a kind act for anyone today?

I know some families who have a Family night each week. Every Wednesday. No TV allowed on this night. Kids can take turns planning a game, followed by evening prayers.

It's never too late to start, if you think you haven't a chance - start now. Above all, do not fall into the trap of getting discouraged. Every step you take - however small - can go a long way. There are always going to be obstacles. Like these:
- My spouse doesn't practice the faith.
- My children are too young.
- My children aren't interested in Jesus or the church.

The love and presence of Jesus in your home is the single most important gift one can give to a spouse. Surely, once a day, ask Him to guide your lives along the path to heaven. Whatever you do, never stop telling your spouse and your children how much you love them. Never stop telling them how much Jesus loves them. May God bless you and your family deeply!

I'll be praying for you,
Sister Francelle