Feast of the Holy Family December 26, 2004 Scripture: Sirach 3:2-6,12-14; Colossians 3:12-21; Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23 Reflection: We are living in a time when traditional notions of “family” are being stretched and changed on a seemingly daily basis. Only 20 percent of children are born into traditional families, with two parents. Many are born to single mothers, and most children live in blended, step or other not-traditional households. The care the Gospels call for us to extend to the elders in our families is also challenged by the distance generations live from each other and the difficulty that situation presents. But today’s feast reminds us that family, however constructed, is still the place where love works best. It fulfills God’s mission of abundant blessing and is the matrix for guarding, revealing and communicating love. It is the place where our stories begin, where our traditions are taught, values imparted and the strands of life that connect us to each other and the wider world are interwoven and revealed. There are many gifts in that stable, and family is one of the greatest Jesus received. For Jesus is not embodied alone; He is placed in a circle of ancestors and born from a lineage that supports, challenges and strengthens him as he grew into the fullness of his own blessed life. Suggested Action: Spend a few quiet moments with a picture of family members today. Offer a prayer of gratitude and thanks for each member and let at least one person know how he/she has nourished and nurtured your life. Sr. Ann Barbara DeSiano, IHM Forest Hills, New York