February 1. Blessed Benedict Daswa.  A respected school principal and family man, Daswa was stoned and killed by fellow-villagers in Venda on 2 February 1990 because they were jealous of his success and they hated him for his opposition to withcraft. “One of Benedict’s friends, also a principal, spoke about his attitude towards family life, “When men were at a District meeting, Benedict said, ‘Men should help their wives. For example, if there is a baby at home and the Mother is busy, the Father should take care of the baby. The time has come for men to realise that we can do women’s work.’ Some men used to laugh at him, saying that he was overpowered by his wife. Benedict’s response. ‘You will be looked down on if you are the boss in the family, yet do not help your wife, and expect that the women will do everything for you. Biologically, we are meant to help one another.”  He was beatified as South Africa’s 1st martyr in September 2015. Visit www.benedictdaswa.org.za for more.

Scripture: “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, 46 who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.”  Matthew 13:45-46.  Pope Francis. By their witness as well as their words families speak to others of Jesus.  They pass on the faith, arouse a desire for God and reflect the beauty of the Gospel and its way of life. AL 184.  Reflect, share, act and pray.