As the Diocese of Roseau continues its Jubilee Hope celebrations, Bishop Kendricks Forbes has called for a renewed focus on family life, designating the week of May 11th through 17th as Family Week 2025. Under the theme, “Our Families, Our Hope,” the initiative highlights the family as the foundation of both the church and society, emphasizing its role in fostering love, humanity, and faith.
In a statement, Bishop Forbes highlighted the importance of strengthening family bonds, calling the family the “domestic church” and the “sanctuary of life and love.” He urged the faithful to actively participate in planned activities that will enrich their homes and faith communities, stating that “strong Christian families help fan and nurture the flame of hope.”
The Family Life Commission of the Catholic Church, led by Fr. Herman Sharplis, has meticulously organized a series of events for the week, ensuring meaningful engagement for all family structures, including single parents, married couples, widows, and children. The celebrations will commence on Mother’s Day, May 11th, with a special blessing for mothers and a recognition of exemplary mothers within the community.
Throughout the week, various activities will take place, including Family Appreciation Day, special Masses for different family groups, a Family Holy Hour, and a Family Fun Night. The festivities will culminate with a pilgrimage to La Salette, beginning with a Rosary Procession from Loubiere, followed by Stations of the Cross, Confessions, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, and prayers dedicated to intergenerational healing. The week will conclude with a closing Mass at 11:30 AM on May 17th.
Additionally, Dominica Catholic radio will feature programs highlighting different types of families, aspects of liturgy within the domestic church, and discussions on the spiritual and societal roles of family life.
As the Diocese embarks on this special week, Bishop Forbes encourages all to embrace the opportunity to celebrate, strengthen, and renew their commitment to family life, ensuring that hope remains at the heart of every household.
“May God bless all families, and may they be signs, witnesses of hope,” stated Bishop Forbes.
