Msgr. Pope on the Blessing of Our Families

". . . As we well know, family life can be wonderful, but it can also be challenging and even terrible at times. We can choose our friends, but seldom can we choose our family. Family is assigned by God and thus, we do well to understand that what we want is not always the same as what we need. 

"Family members have a way way of keeping us humble. Siblings, especially, are ever present to remind us that we are not all we are 'not all that' and that life isn't just about us. Sadly today, many people have few, if any, siblings and this factor tends to produce a lot more narcissism and idiosyncrasy. But oh, for a few siblings to keep you humble! Parents too can humble us and also encourage us, they can edify us and also cause deep pain. Add to the mix cousins and in-laws of every sort and the mix becomes quite a show. Our families can have all the glory, and all the gorey. Among us there are saints and there are aint's; there are the mighty oaks of legendary renown and more than a few nuts falling from the same family tree.  Ah family, can't live with it, can't live without it.

"This Lent we do well to ponder however that even the difficult and trying aspects of family life have a way of helping us. Somehow it all reminds me of a rock tumbler."

In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on the importance of, during this Lent, seeing "beyond the annoyances of life and the tensions of family, to the greater purposes of God who permits such things for our good."

To access Msgr. Pope's complete post, please visit:

Community in Mission: Visions in Lent: Family Life As a Seen in a Rock Tumbler. (21 FEB 23)