27th November. Widows and orphans are commonly mentioned in the Bible as being poor and needy.  We often think of grandmothers caring for grandchildren who are orphaned, having lost one or both parents.  There are also youth and child-headed families of orphans, who have lost the love and support of a parent, financially, psychologically, emotionally and spiritually.  Do we in our extended families and parishes offer the support needed to all kinds of families in need so that they will remain close to God and not feel angry and rejected in their hardship?

Reflect, share, Scripture.    Jesus looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasure and he saw a poor widow put in two copper coins. He said, “this poor widow has put in more than all of the, out of her poverty she put in all the living that she had.  From Luke 21:1-4.  Pope Francis: Every human being enjoys the right to life, to bodily integrity and the means necessary for the proper development of life. How much still needs to be done for this to become a reality not least through a serious and effective commitment on the port of political leaders.    For all the limitations and at times the failures of politics in discerning and serving the common good may the spirit of solidarity and subsidiarity continue to grow among citizens who believe in the value of voluntary commitment to serving the poor.   Those living in poverty must also be involved and accompanied in a process of change and responsibility.    Message of World Day of the Poor 2023.  Action and prayer:  Remember in prayer the needs of those we have loved and lost, those who remain and those affected by violence against women and children during these 16 days.