May 18. It seemed to the parish family team that almost everywhere there were differences in religious traditions and practice in families.  Most couples marry a partner belonging to another church, either a mainline church or a Pentecostal or African independent church. Christians marry Hindu, Jewish, or Muslim partners. Within one religion and one family there are also differences in practice and beliefs.  Devotion to Mary and the rosary, different types of worship or music, acceptance of teaching on contraception and Mass attendance are some differences that the team realized should be encouraged to be talked about as a couple from the start and over time with their children. Jason asked, “Was it always like this amongst human families or is this non-conformist attitude more recent? There is surely more conformity in nature.”

Reflect, share and act. Scripture.  . Some men came down from Judea and were teaching, “unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” Paul and Barnabas were appointed to go up to Jerusalem about this question. Acts 15:1-6.  Pope Francis:  Marriages involving spouses of different religions present special difficulties regarding both the Christian identity of the family and the religious upbringing of children. We reiterate the necessity that the religious freedom of all must be respected.  AL 248.   Human beings cannot be expected to feel responsibility for the world unless at the same time their unique capacities of knowledge, will, freedom and responsibility are recognized and valued. LS 118   Pray. Mary, mother of peace, calling us to overcome conflict, pray for us.