𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗗𝗼 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗪𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆? | 28 Dec 2025 HOMILY w/ Fr. Jerry Orbos, SVD | Holy Family Sunday

Summary

This script is a reflection on the importance of family, faith, and grace, as seen through the lens of the Holy Family's journey to Egypt. The homily emphasizes staying united, regardless of struggles, and highlights the role of prayer in maintaining strong family bonds. The speaker encourages gratitude, forgiveness, and the idea that a good family is one close to God and to one another. The message underscores that grace can heal wounds, and no matter the challenges, families should keep their faith and love alive, supporting each other through both good and bad times.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Holy Family's flight to Egypt was the first 'plane ride' for Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, symbolizing their escape from King Herod's threat.
• 😀 Despite challenges, families should stay together and support each other, no matter what happens.
• 😀 There is no such thing as a perfect family, but it is important to never give up on one another.
• 😀 Grace can happen in difficult circumstances, as seen in a touching story of a couple who renewed their vows after reconciliation.
• 😀 A good family is one that is close to God, where faith is central to the relationships and daily life.
• 😀 Praying for your family, whether they are near or far, living or deceased, is a powerful act that strengthens family bonds.
• 😀 Conversations in a family should focus on positive things, rather than always discussing problems or hurts.
• 😀 Families should make an effort to appreciate each other and express kindness and gratitude.
• 😀 A good family is not just close to each other but also serves the people around them, following the example of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.
• 😀 The family that prays together stays together, and regular family prayer is key to maintaining strong connections.
• 😀 The message of the Gospel calls for families to serve the Lord and live with love and humility, not just for their own benefit but for others.

Q & A

What Gospel passage is being read in the transcript?

The Gospel reading is from the Book of Matthew, focusing on the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt and their return after the death of Herod.

Why did Joseph take Mary and the child Jesus to Egypt?

Joseph fled to Egypt with Mary and Jesus because an angel warned him in a dream that Herod was searching for the child to destroy him.

What happened after Herod’s death according to the Gospel?

After Herod’s death, an angel appeared again to Joseph in a dream, instructing him to return to the land of Israel.

Why did Joseph decide to settle in Nazareth instead of Judea?

Joseph settled in Nazareth because he learned that Archelaus, Herod’s son, was ruling in Judea, and he was afraid to return there. A warning in a dream further guided him to Galilee.

What main message does the priest emphasize about family?

He emphasizes that a good family stays together, prays together, forgives one another, and remains close to God, each other, and to the people they serve.

How does the priest suggest families can strengthen their bond?

He suggests praying for each other daily, expressing appreciation, maintaining positive communication, staying united despite imperfections, and bringing joy into family life.

What example of forgiveness and grace does the priest share?

He shares a story of a couple celebrating their 36th wedding anniversary in which the husband, who had previously abandoned the family, returned with contrition and sought forgiveness, and the wife forgave him—demonstrating the power of grace.

What is the significance of the poem 'One Little Rose' mentioned in the homily?

The poem emphasizes showing love, appreciation, and kindness while people are still alive rather than waiting until after they are gone.

What does the priest say about maintaining positive communication in families?

He encourages family members to uplift one another by speaking kind and affirming words instead of focusing only on problems, negativity, or complaints.

How does the priest relate family life to serving others?

He reminds families that being a good family includes being close to the people—serving others, avoiding selfishness, and using blessings for the good of the community, not merely for personal comfort.

What biblical phrase does the priest highlight as a family commitment?

He highlights the verse from Joshua: 'As for me and for my house, we will serve the Lord,' encouraging families to adopt this as their mission.

What final prayer intention does the priest express?

He prays for the blessing of families, communities, the Philippines, and the entire world, asking for peace and unity.