“Abide in Me: Building Families Rooted in Christ.”
30th August, the Day of the Family Apostolate is celebrated throughout our Archdiocese—a special occasion that reminds us that the family is the heart of both the Church and society. It is a day to thank God for the gift of our families, to reflect on the challenges they face, and to renew our commitment to building homes where faith, love, and hope flourish.
This celebration takes an even deeper meaning as our Archdiocese journeys under this year’s pastoral theme, “Abide in Me”. Jesus invites each one of us—and every family—to remain close to Him. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit unless it remains united to the vine, our families find strength, peace, and joy when Christ is at the center of our lives.
In every Goan home, there are memories that stay with us—the family Rosary prayed together in the evening, grandparents sharing stories of faith, parents teaching us to make the Sign of the Cross or taking blessing from our elders before leaving home, the joy of celebrating our parish feast, and the laughter around the Sunday lunch table. These are more than cherished traditions; they are the quiet moments in which faith is nurtured and lovingly passed on from one generation to the next.
Yet today’s families face new challenges. Busy work schedules, studies, social media, and endless notifications often leave little time for meaningful conversations. Ironically, we may all be under the same roof, yet feel far apart. The Day of the Family Apostolate gently reminds us that strong families are built not by spending more money together, but by spending more time together—with one another and with God.
No family is perfect. Every home experiences misunderstandings, disappointments, and difficult moments. Even the Holy Family knew uncertainty and hardship. What makes a Christian family different is not the absence of problems, but the presence of Christ. When we choose patience instead of anger, forgiveness instead of resentment, and understanding instead of judgement, we allow Jesus to abide in our homes.
Today, we also remember families carrying silent crosses—those caring for a sick loved one, elderly parents who live alone, couples facing difficulties, parents working long hours or away from home, single parents striving to provide for their children, and families grieving the loss of someone dear. The Day of the Family Apostolate reminds us that no family walks alone. Christ journeys with us through every joy and every trial, inviting us to remain in Him and to draw strength from His unfailing love.
Every member of the family has a unique role to play. Children, your smiles, kindness, and helping hands brighten your home. Young people, your respect, encouragement, and time with your family are gifts that matter more than you may realise.
Parents, your children may forget many of the words you speak, but they will always remember the example you set.
Grandparents, your prayers, wisdom, and stories are precious treasures that continue to strengthen the faith of future generations.
As we celebrate the Day of the Family Apostolate on 30th August, let us renew our commitment to making Christ the center of our homes. Every shared prayer, every family meal, every word of encouragement, and every act of forgiveness becomes an opportunity to abide in His love. May our families become living witnesses of God’s love, showing that faith is not only celebrated in the Church on Sundays but also lived every day at home.
Together, may we be able to say with confidence: “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
— Joshua 24:15
Bazia DCosta Ferrao