Sir 3.2-6, Col 3.12-21, Lk 2.22-40

• The family is the “Sanctuary of Life” and the basic cell of society. The Holy Family, of course, is unique. One member is God, another is sinless, and the third is a saint. But the great lesson of today is that although God could have come into the world in any way he pleased, he chose to become a member of a family, obedient to his earthly parents, and yet totally devoted to the Heavenly Father’s will, as we all must be.

• Strong families are an integral aspect of the Culture of Life. It is precisely the breakdown of family structure that increases the temptation to abort, or to resort to euthanasia or a lack of proper care for the elderly. On the other hand, the communion of persons that comes from giving oneself away to the other in selfless love is what creates the proper context for saying a generous “yes” to life.

• Pro-Life Intercession: That the family may become ever more the sanctuary of life, where all are welcomed as a gift rather than a burden, we pray to the Lord...