May 15. International Day of Families. There was going to be a big celebration for this important day in their town and all the different communities were to be part of it because clearly family life and its challenges are the challenges for everyone.  The Department of Social Development would be highlighting the international theme for the day, “Families and Demographics.”    As families are the core units and a microcosm of society they manifest o many differences between and within families.  A committee had been formed and the arrangements were well in hand when they struck a snag.  Who, from which religious group would lead the opening prayer? Christians were in the majority but the minority groupings believed they had rights too.  The problem was solved when the wise old missionary came not with who would preach but what the message was to be.  He said to the committee, “It is very sad that religion can divide families rather than bring them together. There is an Old Testament Biblical saying that could be the foundation principle for all family living and of life in all kinds of communities.  “Act justly, love tenderly and walk humbly with your God.” from prophet Micah.  That is the way of peace and we could all pray it together, and maybe make it a project for all of us, to live it out!”

Reflect, share, act. Scripture.   The Holy Spirit, the Counsellor whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you, not as the world gives do I give to you. John 14:23-29.  Pope Francis:  In addition to the small circle of the couple and their children there is the larger family which cannot be overlooked. The love of husband and wife and the love between members of the same family, parents and children, brothers and sisters and relatives and members of the household is given life and sustenance by an inner dynamism leading to deeper communion. AL 196  Pray. Mary, Mother of all families and communities pray for us.