Family, prayer should be priorities during Advent

To the Clergy, Religious and Laity of the Archdiocese of New Orleans

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ:
    As we begin the Season of Advent, I ask God’s blessing that you may not only prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus at Christmas, but also become aware of the “Coming of the Lord” in your daily life.
    I am grateful to all those who have assisted in observing 2013 as a Year of Family and Faith.
    Recently, Pope Francis has called for a Synod in October, 2014 on “The Pastoral Challenges of the Family in the Context of Evangelization.” The cardinals and some bishops will meet with the Holy Father to discuss how the Church can encourage family life and minister more effectively to families.
    In light of this announcement of Pope Francis, we will extend our Year of Family and Faith throughout 2014. This continued observance gives all of us an opportunity to continue to strengthen and promote family life.
    May I suggest that perhaps during 2014 we can give renewed attention to:
    ➤ Spend more quality time with members of our family, especially on Sunday.
    ➤ Set aside time to pray as a family.
    ➤ Reclaim Sunday as “the Lord’s Day” and as a day for families to celebrate Mass together.
    ➤ Reach out to those in our families who are hurt and feel isolated.
    We are called to be holy families. Holy families are not perfect families, but families committed to respecting one another, sharing faith and reaching out to those in need.
    May God bless your family and strengthen your love for one another as we continue to celebrate “Family and Faith” throughout 2014.
    Wishing you God’s blessings, I am

Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend Gregory M. Aymond
Archbishop of New Orleans