MORALITY, MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY
In this weekend's homily, I spoke about morality and its relationship to Christ. Morality is not simply a list of "dos and don'ts" that the Church has put out. Morality is not just simply ideals that we try to live up to that don't matter if we do not reach the bar. We are called by St. Paul, to "Put on Christ" and to go above and beyond strict justice, what is due to others and ourselves, and live with a spirit of generosity and self-giving to achieve happiness. Jesus begins to give us this path in the Sermon on the Mount. We must know that these are not ideals to aim for, but rather goals that we must reach as true followers of Christ- and this can only be done by God's grace.
In light of Marriage Sunday in the Archdiocese of Toronto this weekend, I spoke about applying the purpose of morality to marriages. If marriage is looked upon as something passed down from Christ, then it too will be grace filled and strong. Both husband and wife must not look at marriage as an "ideal", but also as a goal which must be surpassed in love and faith. This must also be passed on to the family. If husband and wife have a good strong relationship with each other and with God and continue to strengthen through prayer, this sets an example for the children and invites them to this unity in God.
I invite you to read parts of St. John Paul II's apostolic exhortation, Familiaris Consortio (On the Family in the Modern World). This writing gives a wonderful Catholic guideline and perspective on marriage and the family. There is something for everyone, no matter their familial situation, that can be read and taken away from St. Pope John Paul's exhortation. Spend some time away from the busyness of life doing some spiritual reading to help you to "put on Christ", and work towards eternal happiness and salvation.
