Hello families!
Many of us can relate to Thomas’s response to the news that the disciples had seen Jesus. We want to see for ourselves too, but we grow in faith, trusting the experience and knowledge of others. Many of us have heard the saying “Seeing is believing.” As your family gathers, take some time to consider what that saying means. What are some things we believe because we see them? Is there anything we believe without seeing?
Today’s Gospel reminds us that faith sometimes asks us to believe things we cannot see with our eyes. Read today’s Gospel, John 19:19-31, with your family. Think about Thomas’s response to the reports about the risen Lord. Is Thomas’s doubt reasonable? How does Jesus respond to Thomas? Jesus grants Thomas the evidence that Thomas needs to believe, but Jesus also affirms the faith of those who will be called upon to believe without first-hand experience. We are among those whom Jesus calls blessed. Discuss with your family the basis of each member’s faith in Jesus – the witness of the first disciples, the Gospels, the continuing activity of the Holy Spirit, the community of the Church. Pray together that your faith in Jesus will be strong. Pray an act of faith together. Pick up a Divine Mercy Chaplet pamphlet and say it as a family.
Liturgy Link – Find the image of the Divine Mercy at your parish.
Fun Fact – The two rays of light coming from Jesus’ heart in the image of the Divine Mercy help us recall the graces poured out in Baptism (water) and the Eucharist (blood). (CCC 2669)
Partners in Faith,
Phyllis Chudzinski
Wednesday 4/19/23-Faith Formation 5:30-7pm, Mandatory Parent/Child Reconciliation Retreat