The Catholic Parish of
Saint John Henry Newman

 Covering most of East Leeds

The Call, the Journey and the Mission

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An Invitation from the Bishops of England and Wales to Reflect on the Gift of Marriage and Family Life. Questions for reflection


Over the last few weeks you have been asked to reflect on 6 questions on the “Gift of Marriage and Family Life”.


This week the last 2 questions are below:


Thinking about what you have read in the scriptures and using the quotes below from the teaching of Pope Francis, reflect on the questions that follow applying them to your experience of marriage and family life.

Please pick up a paper from the porch and return your reflection written on the reverse of the paper or a separate sheet to church and drop it into a box which has been provided. These will be then sent direct to the Bishop’s Secretary.

5. “The family is important, and it is necessary for the survival of humanity. Without the family, the cultural survival of the human race would be at risk.” How does your family life enrich those around you?

6. “Dear families, you know very well that the true joy which we experience in the family is not superficial; it does not come from material objects, from the fact that everything seems to be going well... True joy comes from a profound harmony between persons, something which we all feel in our hearts and which makes us experience the beauty of togetherness, of mutual support along life’s journey. But the basis of this feeling of deep joy is the presence of God, the presence of God in the family and his love, which is welcoming, merciful, and respectful towards all. And above all, a love which is patient... if God’s love is lacking, the family loses its harmony, self-centredness prevails and joy fades. But the family which experiences the joy of faith communicates it naturally. That family is the salt of the earth and the light of the world, it is the leaven of society as a whole. Dear families, always live in faith and simplicity, like the Holy Family of Nazareth! The joy and peace of the Lord be always with you!”

In what way, through the abiding presence of God, is your family “salt of the earth and light to the world,” and a place of and for handing on our faith?

There are still copies of the other 2 papers at the back of each church. Please consider reading then all and return your comments back to church. They will then be forwarded to the Bishop’s Secretary at the Diocese office to be then sent to the Bishops of England & Wales Conference.



Published Fri 10th Apr 2015 22:24:05
Last Modified on Fri 10th Apr 2015 22:24:05

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