All in the Family – Part II

Last week I wrote about the family as the “domestic Church”, and the home as the place where children first encounter the Word of God by both word and example. But what does the Word of God teach them? The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) is very specific about this: “The relationships within the family bring an affinity of feelings, affections and interests, arising from the members’ respect for one another….The family is the community in which, from childhood, one can learn moral values, begin to honor God, and make good use of freedom.” Children from a good family become not only good members of the Church but also good citizens in society. They have learned how to value and respect the freedom of others and they have learned to work towards the common good, towards those things which are best shared with others. Regarding the duties of the children, “as long as a child lives at home, the child should obey his parents in all that they ask of him when it is for his good or that of the family.” (CCC: 2217) This includes the cultivation of virtuous habits, such as attending Church and religious education. The Fourth Commandment is the only one that comes with a promise attached – “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which the Lord gives you.” In other words, be obedient to your parents and you will live a long and prosperous life!” - - - Fr. Jim