In August we are asked to pray for families.

The saints to accompany us this month span a wide range of family life. St Joseph the step-father, who took on the responsibility for the child Jesus and, as a result, became (for a time) a refuge. St Margaret Clitherow who, at her trial for harbouring priests, refused to plead to save her family from being called as witnesses and incriminating themselves. Sts Louis Martin a watchmaker and his wife Zelie a lacemaker were the parents St Therese of Lisieux, and their priority as parents was to create a warm nurturing home for their children.

This month it is suggested that we begin our prayer time by asking for the grace to see where God has blessed us through our families. We might give thanks for times of joy or ask for the gift of reconciliation and the courage to place painful times into the Lord’s hands.