Fortified through the years

At the end of the household, MFC members should have spent quality time with their family through prayer and sharing towards having a deeper relationship that will lead them home with Christ

A gift is something unasked for, but freely given. Time is a gift. Let us offer this gift most especially to our own families by scheduling a short family household. You may do it during meal time or down time, after Mass, or whenever it is comfortable to gather the whole family.

(Lead your family into a short prayer)

Lord, we come home to You and glorify You as the center of our family. As we are gathered at this moment, grant us the grace to have a simple sharing with one another. May the Holy Spirit inspire us and fill our family with Your Love. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be.

St. Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church, pray for us.

In the recent difficult situation that you faced, who or what was your source of strength?

“God is our refuge and our strength, and ever-present help in distress.” - Psalm 46:2

The meaning of the word “fortified” is to be made stronger or more secured. We might have encountered this word whenever we watch food advertisements, and the usual script is “fortified with vitamins and minerals.” It simply means that the food product being advertised is meant to improve nutrition and add health benefits. We can also relate this word to a house. A house, to be able to withstand rains, floods, winds and earthquakes should be should be “fortified.” If there are cracks, rusts or any damages, it should be repaired and fixed for it to stand strong. We all face difficult situations, whether it be in our past or in our present, most especially in this time of pandemic. We have been tested and strengthened through our life experiences and challenges. In everything that we went through – defeats, victories, sickness, healing - may we recognize that we were all fortified by God. It is only because of Him, our refuge and strength, His presence and faithfulness, that we are still here. Starting today, may we choose to be sanctified to be able to be fortified. As St. Faustina Kowalka once said, “Jesus, source of my life, sanctify me. O my strength, fortify me. My commander, fight for me.” Let’s allow Christ to sanctify and fortify us in our prayer life, Scriptural readings, sacraments and service. As Jesus sanctifies and fortifies us, may we continue choosing to glorify him.

We are strengthened as a family to enable us to do God’s work. Our home is fortified in order to become a base for mission. – Frank Padilla, The Way Forward in Christ (Part 181)

For discussion, answer the following question/s:

• How has God fortified you through the years?

Participate as a family in MFC 40th Anniversary Celebration on June 21-27, 2021.

End this family household by praying together as one family.

Have a family photo then post it on your social media account. Use the hashtags #MissionaryFamiliesofChrist #FORTYfiedinFAITH #MFC40Years #FamilyHousehold