On Dec. 27, we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph and the beginning of the Year of the Domestic Church in the Diocese of Austin, under the patronage of St. Joseph. Throughout the next year, there will be monthly themes on the domestic church with accompanying resources on the Austin Diocese website. May this Year of the Domestic Church, through the intercession of St. Joseph, grant us a rich experience of the merciful love of God as we grow in faith in our households and parish families.
Letter to the Faithful from Most Reverend Joe S. Vásquez: English | Español
O God, creator of all, you ordered the earth to bring forth life and crowned its goodness by creating the human family. In history's moment when all was ready, you sent your Son to dwell in time, "practicing the virtues of family life and in the bonds of charity." Teach us the sanctity of human love; show us the value of the Domestic Church; and help us to live in peace with all people, that we may share in your life forever. With the intercession of St. Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church, we ask this through Christ the Lord. Amen.
Oh Dios, creador de todas las cosas, Tú ordenaste a la tierra que diera vida y coronaste su bondad con la creación de la vida humana. En el momento histórico en el que todo estaba listo, enviaste a tu Hijo para que viviera en el tiempo, "practicando las virtudes de la vida familiar y los lazos de la caridad". Enséñanos la santidad del amor humano; muéstranos el valor de la Iglesia Doméstica y ayúdanos a vivir en paz con toda la gente, para que compartamos tu vida para siempre. Por la intercesión de San José, Patrón Universal de la Iglesia, te lo pedimos por Cristo nuestro Señor. Amén.