March 19th marks the beginning of a year dedicated to the pastoral care of families. The date commemorates the fifth anniversary of the Apostolic Exhortation, “Amoris Laetitia”, Pope Francis’ most significant text on the importance of the family.
In the document, the Pope confirms how greater care for families will benefit all levels of society.
CARING FOR RELATIONSHIPS
In the face of problems confronting families every day, Pope Francis calls on individuals to take care of the many relationships that make up a family.
POPE FRANCIS
May 13, 2015
“Even our Lord knocks and asks for permission to come in. Let's not forget, before doing something with your family, ask: May I? Can I do this? Do you agree with this? They are educated words, but even more they're filled with love”.
CULTIVATING VALUES
Popes have traditionally paid special attention to young families, because they understand that family values are cultivated in the home.
POPE FRANCIS
May 7, 2018
“I have a habit. When I hear the confessions of a father, a mother who has young children, also older, but above all younger... I ask them if they play with their children. Values are also transmitted through playing. But do you have time to get on the floor and play with your son, your daughter? This is big. Never lose this. Know how to spend time with your children. This language of love is able to transmit all the values of the faith.”
Pope Francis recognizes that the family is an institution that has its problems. But he also considers it the greatest source of joy.
FAMILIES DURING THE PANDEMIC
The Pope admires the many families who’ve found creative solutions to overcome the problems presented by the pandemic. He often prays for relief from the harmful effects of the lockdown.
POPE FRANCIS
May 4, 2020
“With a lot of creativity with the children—with everyone—to keep moving forward. Then there is another thing: that sometimes there is domestic violence. Let us pray for families, so they can persevere in peace, with creativity and patience, during this quarantine”.
THE CROSS BEFORE THE RESURRECTION
While families are founded on love, hope, and trust, they face serious challenges too.
POPE FRANCIS
“Some of you say to me: “Father, you say these things because you are not married…families have difficult moments. Families fight, and sometimes those fights get intense. Children can be a real headache in a family. Don’t get me started on the in-laws. There is always, always, a cross in the family. Always.
The Amoris Laetitia Family Year is an opportunity to reflect on a papal document that sheds light on many aspects of everyday life.
Which is why it begins on March 19th, the fifth anniversary of its signing, and the Feast of St. Joseph.
Daniel Díaz Vizzi
TR :JM
