Family Matters

September 11.  Religion and fraternity. “Have you heard of Jews for Jesus?”  Michael asked.  “Doesn't that do away with their Jewishness?”  came the response. “I don't know any Jewish families personally but I believe that one of their characteristics is a pretty...

September 10. Sunday 23A.  Fr Joseph began his homily. “There are two thoughts that struck me when I was reflecting on the gospel for today. One is obviously about forgiveness and I can see it almost as in a business matter where you have to go to arbitration to...

September 9.  Relationship breakdown and sin.   One Saturday the family decided to camp out as they did from time to time, to experience nature more intimately.  They had put up their tent and as everyone was hungry they all helped to put together their simple meal....

September 8.  Mary’s birthday. On their eco-safari the family visited a vineyard, and after experiencing a wine-tasting they held a discussion about wine and also considered substance abuse.  “While we do love wine we often see alcohol as a problem.  In Jesus’ time it...

September 7. The large catch of fish.   On their eco-safari the family stopped to watch the workings of a fishing village.  Paulus had grown up by the sea. He explained that fishing for a living can be hard and dangerous work but is a necessary way of...

September 5. St Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Mom shared her admiration for Mother Teresa over the years.” I’m very happy that she has been canonised and today is her feastday.  Her story is amazing. She spent almost her whole life caring for the poor. ...

September 4.  The JP and Family groups each brought their own ideas to share. Jonas from Family Life was strong on the need to build strong family relationships but had been touched too by the overwhelming practical needs of the poor, like the needs of those left...