Pastor's Pen - December 27, 2015

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Many of us have had the luxury of spending time with our own families and might still be blessed with their presence as this Christmas-tide is extended a couple days this year. Perhaps this time with family was not the blessing we would have wanted it to be because of a rift in the family or a loss that dampens the celebration. I, personally, am blessed with a great family so anytime I am with them I have a feeling of being blessed and I do not take this for granted.

This year I can’t help but think of all the people who are fleeing injustices and even life threatening situations as refugees. This is not a new thing in the history of the world (unfortunately). We can look at the Old Testament and see that migration and being refugees were a big part of the Israelite saga – 40 years in the desert fleeing from Egypt and deportation and return from Babylonian exile are a couple examples. Then we come to the Holy Family itself who fled to Egypt again to escape the “wrath” of Herod who slaughtered the Holy Innocents.

This is not news. It is not even any kind of great revelation. However, as I gather within the comfort of my family during this Christmas season, I will be mindful of those who will not be able to do the same (at least not in the safety of a home) and I will hold onto the blessings that come from being in family.

Fr. Chuck