Ever wondered about a family so revered they have a feast day dedicated to them? Today, we find ourselves before Zur Heiligen Familie. It is a church dedicated to the Holy Family. This is Jesus, Mary, and Joseph.
The Catholic tradition views the Holy Family as an example. They are seen after the infancy stories in the Gospels of Luke and Matthew. Depictions of the Holy Family often appear in art. They feature in scenes from the Christmas story. These include the birth of Christ and the adoration of the Magi. The Holy Family is often shown on the flight to Egypt. They may also be seen in everyday life.
The veneration of the Holy Family grew over time. It became more prominent in the 17th century. By the 19th century, it was flourishing. This was partly due to the founding of the Brotherhood of the Holy Family in Liège in 1844. Pope Leo XIII especially promoted this devotion. Perhaps he wanted to counter the breakdown of the Christian family image.
The longest part of Jesus’ life was spent with his family. For about 30 years, he lived quietly in Nazareth. He lived with his small Jewish family. The Feast of the Holy Family reminds us of this time. It is celebrated on the Sunday after Christmas.
The life of the Holy Family was not without its challenges. Joseph worried about Mary’s pregnancy. She could have been stoned because of it. An angel revealed Joseph’s role as protector. The family traveled to Bethlehem when Mary was pregnant. Jesus was born in a stable. They then fled to Egypt. King Herod sought to kill Jesus. When Jesus was twelve, he was lost. Mary and Joseph searched for him in Jerusalem. They experienced many hardships. Joseph died. Mary and Jesus were left alone.
The Festum Sanctae Familiae Iesu, Mariae et Ioseph was removed from the liturgical calendar by Pope Pius X. He wanted to emphasize Sundays. Pope Benedict XV reinstated the festival in 1921. It was set for the Sunday after the Epiphany. Since the liturgical reform in 1969, it is celebrated on the Sunday within the Christmas Octave.
The Holy Family stands as a symbol. It represents familial love and devotion. It is a reminder that even in the most challenging times, family remains a source of strength and faith. Zur Heiligen Familie is dedicated to this. It embodies the values of love, sacrifice, and commitment. It is a testament to the enduring power of family.