We are in the third quarter of our parish theme on the Year of the Family and in two weeks’ time we shall be celebrating Catechetical Sunday. It is an appropriate time to stress on the family values and the importance of faith education for teachers, parents and     children in the next couple of weeks.

Two things that we must nurture in our homes: love and self-sacrifice. Sincere parental love makes the child home-centered and gives security, purpose, and direction to our children’s life. Self-sacrifice and firm parental discipline set rules of family life and teach respect for society. If children learn obedience early in life, they will extend that obedience to their teachers and parents and in time to the wider society.

As parents, you stand in God’s place in your home, and you have God’s power invested in you in training your children. Do not give up that power. God wants a cheerful home where there is love, goodness, and generosity of heart. Parents are precious gifts from God. Parents, you need faith to sustain the spirituality of your family by praying together and sharing your time and thoughts often enough with your children. We are to make our home life intimate enough to make every member of our family live in the love and service of God.

1. Blessed is the home where the father, mother and children love
   God sincerely and keep His commandments faithfully.
2. Blessed is the home where Sundays and holy days are properly observed.
3. Blessed is the home where cursing and unkind speech is not heard, nor intemperance rule.
4. Blessed is the home where father and mother are conscious of      the sacred dignity of bringing up children in a rightful way and educating them in the service of God and neighbour.
5. Blessed is the home where Christian doctrine and gospel values are appreciated and learned from the Catechism and Bible, and where Faith is kept strong and active.
6. Blessed is the home where parents find their joy in children who are well-behaved and obedient, and where the children find in their parents the example and love of God.

Where there is faith, there is love. Where there is love, there is peace. Where there is peace, there is God. Where there is God, there is happiness.

“My child, do not forget my teaching, let your heart keep my principles, since they will increase your length of days, your years of life and your well-being,” (Proverb 3:1-2).