The DAILY THOUGHTS for these days, following the usual format, are developed from the conference themes and guidelines, with brief anecdotes and the scripture readings of the day.  

June 22. World Meeting of Families opening day. Conference 1. Family love.  Families and pastors together on mission    

Reflect, share and act.  Scripture.  My flesh is real food; my blood is real drink.  Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood dwells continually in me and I dwell in him.  John 6:56-57.  Jesus said to his disciples: Beware of false prophets who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. Mat 7:15-20.  Pope Francis:  In addition to and together with the sacrament of Holy Orders, spouses and families are a sacrament for mission (CCC n. 1534). Their apostolic impulse stems from Baptism and the grace of marriage, and by virtue of this identity they can bear witness, evangelize and bestow a spirit of ecclesial communion. AL 201.  On the one hand, it is necessary to “wake up” families, and convey to them the awareness of the gift they represent within the Church. On the other hand, it is important that the Church learn to value the gifts that the Spirit bestows on the family, AL 290. From Conference 1.