Prayer for Families

On this ‘Holy Family of Nazareth Sunday,’ I share with you this beautiful and meaningful prayer. May all families live by the standards this prayer evokes:

O God, in the beginning You brought together man and woman in holy marriage that they might share Your work of creation and bring enriching life to one another. We commend to Your constant care the homes where Your people dwell. Knit together in growing affection those who have been made one flesh so that their love may never fail. Turn the hearts of parents to their children, and the hearts of children to their parents. Take away the roots of bitterness, vanity and self-seeking that brings dissension where family peace should reign. Inspire them rather, with loyalty, faith and sacrifice, that in all the changes and circumstances of life they may stand strongly together in mutual service and love. Help all parents, whether single or married, to use wisdom, understanding, and consideration for the entire family unit when making decisions that will affect all those in their households.  Open their minds and hearts so that discipline is just, effective, and kind, yet firm, teaching the children in their families that there are consequences to their actions.