The Feast of the Holy Family

Sunday, December 31, 2023

The readings for the Feast of the Holy Family for Year B focus on the importance of family. The first reading (Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14) tells of the wisdom and justice in honoring fathers. The alternate first reading (Genesis 15:1-6; 21:1-3), God promises that Abraham and Sarah will have a son. The psalm (Psalm 128:1-2, 3, 4-5) sings “Blessed are those who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.” The alternate psalm (Psalm 105:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9) reminds us that “The Lord remembers his covenant for ever.” The second reading (Colossians 3:12-21) tells us how to live together as families. The alternate for the second reading (Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19) recalls the story of Abraham and Sarah. And in the gospel (Luke 2:22-40) Joseph and Mary take the infant Jesus to Jerusalem for the ritual of purification. There they meet Simeon and Anna, who both speak about Jesus’ future.

So the topics for this weekend could include what it means to be a member of God’s family. Different types of families – biological families, faith families, intentional families – could also be discussed. Here are some ideas:

Presentation of the Lord Crossword Puzzle

The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord commemorates when Joseph and Mary took Jesus to Jerusalem to be consecrated. There they met Simeon and Anna who blessed the child and prophesied about him. Use this crossword puzzle to reinforce the main characters and ideas in the gospel for this day. The printable crossword can be used with youth ministry or children's Liturgy of the Word or a Sunday School lesson.

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord

The readings for the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord speak of purification and offering. What am I willing to present to God as an offering? What parts of my life do I need to purify? Where am I in need of more holiness? Can I offer some aspect of my own life as the gifts are brought up during the offertory?

Family Circle Game

Family Circle is a game which works well as an icebreaker or for a lesson about relationships. It also makes sense for a meeting about human dignity. We are all members of God's family.

Let the Peace of Christ Control Your Hearts

And over all these put on love, that is, the bond of perfection. And let the peace of Christ control your hearts, the peace into which you were also called in one body.

Seeing Salvation – Reflection and Discussion Questions

The purpose of this reflection is to help youth understand the importance of recognizing God. They will consider what signs indicate that God is near.