September 30.  The extended Jackson family had always been close but had undergone a tough time in their family business and some of the younger members wanting to break away and do their own thing. Joe and Vanessa felt as if the family was falling apart. Two of the sons and their wives made a concerted effort to get the whole tribe together for a special celebration Mass for the parents 50th wedding anniversary. It took some effort, some conflict and some healing but eventually the day arrived and was celebrated with great joy. Afterwards Ruby shared, “This has been quite a mission and maybe it is also our family’s mission to recapture some of that closeness and even share it with other families. Isn’t that something to celebrate?” Antonette made her own contribution as she patted her old faithful dog Prince, while Jessica rolled on the floor with the family’s new puppies. “At this time let us not forget all the other families of creation who also celebrate in many ways the gift of life. In dog terms I think my Prince must be at least 50 too.”   

 After the exile Ezra and the Levites taught the people.     Go your way, eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared, for this day is holy to our Lord.   Nehemiah 8:1-12.  Pope Francis.  How I long to find the right words to stir up enthusiasm for a new chapter of evangelisation full of fervour, joy, generosity, courage, boundless love and attraction.   No words of encouragement will be enough unless the fire of the Holy Spirit burns in our hearts.  EG261.  Human beings, endowed with intelligence and love, and drawn by the fullness of Christ, are called to lead all creatures back to their Creator.  LS83

ECO-TIP AND PRAYER:  What marital lifestyle change can I make to undo harm to the environment?  Pray for openness to change. Pray Glory be to the Father……