January 11.  Mothers-in-law.  Why do mothers-in-law have such a bad reputation, it seems across the board and cultures?  The parish was quite racially mixed and it was interesting that different women got together and agreed to meet and talk it through with daughters-in-law as a good start to resolving some of this negative attitude.  Albertina said, “Maybe we are to blame, or maybe it is the young ones who want greater independence. Most likely there is some aspect and attitude from both sides and it probably doesn’t help to blame anyone. Let’s all give it a try”.  

Scripture.  Simon’s mother-in-law lay sick with a fever and immediately they told him of her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up and the fever left her and she served them. From Mark 1:29-39.

 Pope Francis.  The larger family includes in-laws and all the relatives of the couple. One particularly delicate aspect of love is learning not to view these as competitors, threats or intruders. AL198.  Reflect, share, act, pray.