Dear beloved parish community,
As we gather to celebrate Family Weekend here in Alberta, it brings me great joy to extend my warmest greetings to each and every one of you. This occasion is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the vital role that families play in our lives and in our faith community.
Family Weekend is not just a time for celebration; it is a moment to recognize the sacredness of family life, which is deeply rooted in our Catholic faith. Families are the domestic church, where love, faith, and values are nurtured. As Pope John Paul II beautifully articulated, the family is a "community of love" that reflects God's love for humanity. This weekend, let us honor the bonds that unite us and the love that sustains us.
I encourage all families to take this time to come together, share experiences, and create lasting memories. The love and support that family members provide to one another are invaluable. As we reflect on the importance of family, let us remember the words of the Pope, who reminds us that "the family is the place where we learn to love." May this weekend be filled with joy, laughter, and the warmth of togetherness.
As we celebrate Family Weekend, I offer my heartfelt blessings to all families in our parish. May you experience joy, peace, and love during this special time. May God bless each of you abundantly, and may your families continue to be a source of strength and inspiration in your lives.
Let us turn to Our Lady, the Mother of all families, and ask for her intercession as we celebrate this weekend. Amen.