Fr. Bob’s Homily – Feast of the Holy Family

Today, on the Feast of the Holy Family, we reflect on the gift of family—a vital cornerstone of both society and the Church. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters, focusing so much on work and obligations that we neglect the family we’re working to provide for.

Many of us remember the song The Cat’s in the Cradle by the musician Harry Chapin, a ballad about a father who places his job and work before time with his son. The son repeatedly asks, “When you comin’ home, Dad?” but the father always responds, “I don’t know when, but we’ll get together then.” In the end, the roles reverse, and the son becomes distant, just like his father.

Those lyrics reminded me of a story a friend of mine once shared about his daughter, a lawyer living far away. When he asked her to visit, she gave excuses: her busy schedule, clients, and work commitments.

He responded, “When I die, will you come to my funeral?” She was shocked at the question. “Dad, why would you ask me that? Of course I will.” His reply was simple but powerful: “Forget the funeral. Come now. I need you more now than I will then.”

St. Paul offers a blueprint for family life, recognizing that family can be difficult. He emphasizes forgiveness as the glue that keeps relationships strong through rough times. He tells us that if we treat those closest to us with love and patience, we are more likely to do the same with others.

While divorce is a reality in many families, compassion, understanding, and healing must guide our approach to broken relationships.

The message of Christmas is that Jesus, our Savior, was born into a family. Families are holy communities, and we are called to build holy families, as this is where the Gospel begins.

In the late 1980s, New York hospitals cared for orphaned babies stricken with HIV. While many were reluctant to care for these children, some families stepped up. These babies thrived in foster care, not because of medical care alone, but because they were loved, held, and part of a family. A social worker pointed out that the children in foster care survived longer because they experienced the warmth and connection of a family.

As we enter the New Year, let St. Paul’s words guide us: “Clothe yourselves with heartfelt mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Most importantly, put love above all. Remember the song: “We’ll get together then.” Don’t wait for “then.” Make the call, take the visit, show love now. Because, my friends, we may never get another chance.