The Feast of the Holy Family Year A

• First Reading – Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14: God values honoring one’s parents. Respecting them brings many blessings, including answered prayers, long life, and comfort for mothers. Care for aging parents kindly and patiently.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 128: Respecting and following the Lord leads to personal blessings, a prosperous family, and a long, fulfilling life observing Jerusalem’s success.
• Second Reading – Colossians 3:12-22: Adopt virtues like compassion and kindness, forgive each other, and let Christ’s peace and message guide you. Act in all things with gratitude in the name of Jesus.
• Gospel – Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23: Joseph, following angelic directions in dreams, fled with Mary and Jesus to Egypt to escape Herod’s threat, returned to Israel after Herod’s death, and settled in Nazareth as foretold by prophets.

Lectionary Reference: 17

When a Sunday does not occur between December 25 and January 1, the Feast of the Holy Family is celebrated on December 30 with only one reading before the Gospel.

Upcoming dates: December 28, 2025, December 31, 2028, December 28, 2031

The Feast of The Holy Family Year A celebrates the love and unity found in the family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. It invites reflection on family life and the values that strengthen these bonds.

• Honor and Respect in Families: The first reading emphasizes honoring parents, showing that respect within families brings blessings and strengthens relationships. Caring for parents, especially in their old age, is a way to live out God’s commandment.
• Love and Kindness at Home: The second reading from Colossians calls for compassion, kindness, and patience within families. These virtues build harmony and reflect Christ’s love in daily life.
• Forgiveness and Peace: Families are encouraged to forgive one another and live in peace. This echoes the call to let Christ’s peace rule in hearts, fostering unity and understanding.
• Obedience and Guidance: Joseph’s obedience to God’s guidance in the Gospel shows the importance of trusting God’s plan for the family. His example of leadership and protection inspires responsible and loving parenthood.
• Faith and Trust in God: The Holy Family’s journey to Egypt demonstrates faith and trust in God’s protection during hardships. Families are reminded to rely on God during difficult times.
• Role of Parents and Children: The readings highlight the roles of parents as caregivers and teachers, and children as respectful and obedient. These roles support a nurturing and loving home environment.

The Feast of The Holy Family Year A invites reflection on the values that create strong and loving families. By looking to the Holy Family as a model, families can find guidance and inspiration to live in love, faith, and unity.

Family Circle Icebreaker Game

The Family Circle game connects well with the Feast of The Holy Family Year A by promoting unity, respect, and understanding. These values reflect the love and harmony seen in the Holy Family. Through sharing and listening, participants learn to appreciate each other’s experiences, building empathy and compassion, which are key to strong family and community bonds.

This activity also encourages young people to see the dignity in every person, echoing the virtues mentioned in the readings for the Feast of The Holy Family Year A. By practicing patience, kindness, and respect during the game, they learn to live out the call to love and support one another. This lesson in relationship-building helps them reflect on how they can bring these values into their own families and communities.

Have a Birthday Party for Jesus

A birthday party for Jesus beautifully connects to the Feast of The Holy Family Year A by helping children focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Just as the Holy Family welcomed Jesus with love and humility, this celebration teaches kids about simplicity, generosity, and gratitude. It reminds them that Jesus was born in a humble stable, showing that greatness is found in love and service, not in wealth or status.

This celebration also emphasizes giving, reflecting the gifts the wise men brought to honor Jesus. It teaches children to share love and kindness, just as the Holy Family did. By focusing on Jesus and helping those in need, families live out the virtues highlighted in the Feast of The Holy Family Year A. This joyful event helps children understand that Christmas is about love, faith, and the presence of God with us.

Follow this link for activity suggestions for games, snacks, and more.

Psalm 128: Blessings Flow from Faithfulness

Psalm 128 connects faithfulness to God with family life and well-being. Those who walk in the Lord’s ways are blessed not just personally but in their homes. A faithful spouse, joyful children, and peace in the community are all part of the picture. It shows that religious devotion is not only personal but social and family-centered.

This psalm fits into the larger context of the Psalms as prayers that shape a life of trust and obedience. Many psalms speak of justice, peace, and God’s care for those who follow Him. On the Feast of the Holy Family Year A, this prayer reminds us that a faithful home brings joy and hope. To learn more, visit this introduction to Psalm 128.

This blessed home prayer, based on Psalm 128, asks for blessings on our home and family as we follow the ways of the Lord.

Herod and Joseph

In his homily for the Feast of The Holy Family Year A, Bishop Robert Barron contrasts the lives of Herod and Joseph to highlight the true meaning of holiness. Herod was powerful, influential, and focused on his own ambition, even to the point of harming his own family. In contrast, Joseph lived a life of obedience and humility, always following God’s will. He protected Jesus and Mary, even when it meant facing great danger. Bishop Barron points out that Joseph’s quiet faithfulness and willingness to listen to God made his family holy.

Bishop Barron challenges us to choose which example to follow: Herod’s pursuit of power or Joseph’s humble obedience. He reminds us that worldly success and ambition can lead to emptiness, while holiness comes from putting God’s will first. The Feast of The Holy Family Year A teaches that a truly holy family is one that listens to God and supports each other in faith and love.

Saving Family

In his commentary for the Feast of The Holy Family Year A, Scott Hahn explains how the readings reveal God’s purpose for family life. He connects the Holy Family’s journey to Egypt with the story of Moses, showing that God protects His people through family bonds. Just as Moses was saved to lead Israel, Jesus is rescued to lead the new people of God—the Church. Hahn highlights how families play a key role in God’s plan, reflecting His love and faithfulness.

Scott Hahn emphasizes that the Feast of The Holy Family Year A invites us to see our own families as part of God’s design. He explains that family duties, rooted in love and respect, are part of our faith journey. By fulfilling our roles as parents, children, and spouses, we participate in God’s work. This feast calls us to live out our faith within our families, showing love and patience as Christ did.

The Poverty of Christmas

In his reflection for the Feast of The Holy Family Year A, Fr. Richard Rohr challenges us to see God in unexpected places. He points out that the first Christmas was not glamorous or comfortable. Joseph broke the law to protect Mary, and the Holy Family was homeless and fleeing danger. Fr. Richard explains that God reveals Himself not in places of power and wealth but in humble, messy situations. This shows that God is present in the ordinary and difficult moments of life.

Fr. Richard Rohr urges us to rethink our image of God for the Feast of The Holy Family Year A. Instead of seeing God as a distant judge, he invites us to see God’s vulnerability in the helpless baby Jesus. This challenges our ideas of power and status. By embracing God’s presence in the simple and imperfect, we learn to live with hope, trust, and a deeper understanding of love.

The Feast of The Holy Family Year A reminds us of the importance of family life and the values that strengthen it. The readings invite us to reflect on honoring our loved ones, practicing compassion and patience, and trusting in God’s guidance. Through the example of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, we learn how to live faithfully within our own families, even when faced with challenges. These reflections help us see how we can grow in love and unity by following their example.

Honoring Family Despite Imperfections

The first reading for the Feast of The Holy Family Year A emphasizes honoring parents. To honor someone means to desire their good, even when relationships are difficult. Family life is often complicated. It is possible to honor a parent or sibling without ignoring past hurts. Honoring does not mean accepting harmful behavior. It means seeking what is best for them while maintaining healthy boundaries.

Respect within families is about recognizing each person’s dignity. This includes those who have hurt us. We can pray for them and wish them well, even if we need to keep distance for our own well-being. Honoring them is about our own integrity, not necessarily about repairing broken relationships. It allows us to choose love without denying the truth of our pain.

This wisdom is echoed in the Feast of The Holy Family Year A, where Joseph protects his family by obeying God’s call. His actions honor God and his family. He shows that honoring does not always mean staying in one place or accepting everything as it is. Sometimes it requires courage and change to protect those we love.

Families are not perfect. There are misunderstandings and conflicts. But by honoring each other, even in imperfect situations, we follow the example of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Their trust in God and commitment to each other show us how to live faithfully within the realities of family life.

Building Harmony with Compassion

The second reading for the Feast of The Holy Family Year A calls for compassion, kindness, and patience. These virtues are essential for building harmony within families. Compassion means being sensitive to each other’s struggles. It means listening and offering support without judgment. Kindness is about choosing to be gentle in words and actions, even when conflicts arise.

Patience is crucial in family life. People make mistakes, and growth takes time. Patience allows us to accept each other’s limitations while encouraging positive change. It prevents us from reacting harshly or giving up on each other. By practicing patience, we mirror Christ’s love and mercy.

In the Feast of The Holy Family Year A, Joseph shows great patience and understanding. He responds to God’s message without anger or frustration. He accepts his role with humility, protecting Mary and Jesus even when the path is uncertain. His patience and kindness preserve peace within his family.

These virtues are not always easy to practice, especially when emotions run high. But they are essential for healthy relationships. They help us navigate challenges and forgive each other. In doing so, we reflect Christ’s love in our homes. By choosing compassion, kindness, and patience, we contribute to harmony and unity in our families.

Trusting God’s Guidance

Both the first reading and the Gospel for the Feast of The Holy Family Year A highlight the importance of trusting God’s guidance. In Sirach, we see the blessings that come from honoring parents and living according to God’s wisdom. This trust is rooted in faith, even when life is uncertain or challenging.

In the Gospel, Joseph demonstrates deep trust in God. When warned in a dream, he immediately takes action to protect Mary and Jesus. He does not hesitate or question God’s plan. He trusts that God’s guidance will lead his family to safety. This faith is the foundation of his role as a husband and father.

Trusting God’s guidance is not always easy. It often involves stepping into the unknown, just as Joseph did when he fled to Egypt. It means letting go of our own plans and allowing God to lead. This requires courage and humility. It challenges us to believe that God’s ways are better than our own.

The Feast of The Holy Family Year A reminds us that God is always present in our lives, even when we cannot see the full picture. Like Joseph, we are called to listen and respond to God’s call with faith. This trust builds strong families rooted in God’s love and wisdom.

By trusting God’s guidance, we find peace in the midst of uncertainty. We learn to lean on God in times of trouble, knowing that He cares for us as His children. This faith unites families and helps them navigate life’s challenges with hope and strength.

Reflecting on the Feast of The Holy Family Year A encourages us to look at our own family relationships with faith and humility. It invites us to honor each other, show compassion, and trust in God’s plan. By embracing these values, we can build stronger, more loving families rooted in faith and respect.

Prayer

Lord, help us to follow the example of the Holy Family. Teach us to honor each other with love and respect. Grant us compassion and patience in our daily lives. Guide our families with your wisdom and peace. May we always trust in your plan. Amen.

• How can I honor my family members even when relationships are difficult?
• In what ways can I practice compassion and kindness at home?
• How can patience help me build better relationships with my loved ones?
• What does it mean to trust God’s guidance in my family life?
• How can I follow Joseph’s example of obedience and courage?
• Do I listen to God’s call in my family decisions?
• How can I contribute to harmony and unity in my home?
• What can I learn from the Holy Family’s faith and trust in God?
• How do I respond to challenges within my family?
• How can I better reflect Christ’s love to my family members?

These music selections capture the themes of faith, love, and trust in God found in the readings for the Feast of The Holy Family Year A. Many songs focus on the humble beginnings of Jesus, highlighting the importance of family, obedience, and protection. Other selections celebrate the joy of Christ’s birth, echoing the unity and love within the Holy Family. Some songs emphasize gratitude and praise, reflecting the call to live with compassion and kindness. Together, they inspire us to embrace faith and harmony within our own families.

• Angels We Have Heard on High by Andrea Bocelli
• Bethlehem by Chris Tomlin
• Be Joyful, Mary by the Daughters of St. Paul
• Breath of Heaven / Mary’s Song by Amy Grant
• Christians, Let Us Love One Another by Claudia Foltz 
• City of God by Dan Schutte
• Glory / Let There Be Peace by Matt Maher
• Glory and Praise to Our God by Dan Schutte
• Here Is Our King by David Crowder Band
• Joy to the World by Casting Crowns
• Love Has Come by Matt Maher
• O Holy Night by Pentatonix
• O Little Town of Bethlehem by Lewis H. Redner & Phillips C. Brooks
• Of the Father’s Love Begotten by Curtis Stephan
• Once in Royal David’s City by Rend Collective
• Psalm 128: Blessed Are Those Who Fear the Lord by Francesca LaRosa
• Psalm 128: O Blessed Are Those by Paul Inwood
• Sing a New Song by Dan Schutte
• Today Is Born Our Savior by Marty Haugen
• The First Noël by Kari Jobe
• The Servant Song by Richard Gillard & Betty C. Pulkingham
• Ubi Caritas by Bob Hurd & Pedro Rubalcava
• Unto us a Child is Born by the Vienna Boys Choir
• Wake from Your Sleep by Dan Schutte
• Welcome to Our World by Chris Rice
• What Child is This / Child of the Poor by The Hound + The Fox
• Where Charity and Love Abide by Trevor Thomson
• Where Charity and Love Prevail

Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections for the Feast of The Holy Family Year A. These pieces can enhance the celebration by connecting the congregation to the themes of family, faith, and love. Feel free to try different arrangements and styles to resonate with your community. Share your experiences and suggest other fitting songs in the comments to inspire others.

What date is the Feast of the Holy Family Year A?

The next date is Sunday December 28, 2025.

When a Sunday does not occur between December 25 and January 1, this feast is celebrated on December 30 with only one reading before the Gospel.

For other years see the links below:
Feast of The Holy Family Year B
Feast of The Holy Family Year C

What is the main message of the Feast of The Holy Family Year A?

The Feast of The Holy Family Year A celebrates Jesus, Mary, and Joseph as a model for all families. It reminds us of the importance of love, respect, and faith in family life.

Why is honoring parents important in the first reading?

The first reading emphasizes honoring parents as a way to show gratitude and respect. It teaches that caring for parents brings blessings and reflects God’s love.

How can we honor difficult family members?

Honoring someone does not mean ignoring harm or pain. It means treating them with respect, setting healthy boundaries, and choosing forgiveness when possible.

What does mutual submission mean in marriage?

Mutual submission means spouses support each other with love and respect. It is about serving each other selflessly, just as Christ served others.

How does the second reading relate to family life?

The second reading encourages compassion, kindness, and patience, which are essential in family relationships. It teaches that forgiveness and love create harmony in the home.

What can we learn from Joseph’s obedience in the Gospel?

Joseph listened to God and protected his family without hesitation. His example shows us the importance of trusting God and taking action to care for loved ones.

Why did the Holy Family flee to Egypt?

They fled to Egypt to escape King Herod’s threat. This shows that even holy families face challenges and must rely on faith and courage.

What role does faith play in the Feast of The Holy Family Year A?

Faith is central, guiding the Holy Family’s actions and decisions. It reminds us to trust God’s plan, even in difficult times.

How can we apply the lessons of the Feast of The Holy Family Year A to our lives?

We can practice love, respect, and forgiveness in our families. We can also follow Joseph’s example of protecting and guiding our loved ones with faith.

Why is the Holy Family a model for us?

The Holy Family shows us how to live with faith, love, and obedience to God. Their example helps us build stronger, faith-filled families.