Family. Few words evoke such a vast gamut of emotions. Some of them filled with joy, others wrought with immense challenge. You can imagine that this is particularly nuanced when it comes to women survivors of sexual exploitation. That is why I acutely felt this reality at Mass on Sunday, traditionally the Feast of the Holy Family in the Catholic Church. For midnight Christmas Mass and for Mass on Sunday, three community members asked if they could attend with me. I was somewhat taken aback, in a good way. I felt joy to have their company in the pew.

The faith community next door, at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Parish, could not be more welcoming. They greet everyone with a joyful face and invite everyone to introduce themselves. The sign of peace is an extended banquet of hugs, smiles, and warm wishes. But the introductory message, delivered by a dear friend and a member of the laity, had a potent effect on me. The message started with a homage to Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. The Holy Family. It celebrated this beautiful trio and encouraged us to celebrate our past and present families that reflect their many positive and exemplary attributes. 

However, in my pew, and I am sure throughout the Church, many family members don’t exactly reflect this image. On this day, I was particularly aware of this. My love for the woman who sat with me caused me great worry. How did they feel about all this family talk when some of their experiences were difficult?

But then it happened. My beautiful friend began to call out the many iterations of family. I heard, “We welcome the beautiful Bakhita family, our beloved neighbors.” I could viscerally feel the tension dissipate from my body, and my heart truly rejoiced. Hallelujah, God is with us! We are family.

We wish you and your many kinds of family a Merry Christmas and a beautiful 2025! We consider you members of our extended family, and we appreciate, love, and pray for you. This is how we will change the world!

Blessings, peace, and gratitude,
Anne