Site MapCatholic ThemesAnchor ConceptsCGETemplatesLeadership Resources

Anchor Concept: Family (PDF File)

FAMILY

Family is the basic community upon which all civilizations are built. The family has its own inherent, God-given laws which ensure its stability; the health and well-being of the family in turn ensures the stability of society and culture. The Christian family is a community of faith. It is the response to God's call to unite in marriage, beget and raise children and educate them in the light of Christian faith. Christian family is thus a vocation to holiness, whose origin is found in baptism. All family members whether in dual parent, single-parent or blended households, share a common and equal dignity as children of God. Mutual love and respect enables family members to grow in freedom to fulfill their roles and responsibilities as contributing members of society. The love of family members for one another reflects the mutual love of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and the self-giving love of Christ for all who make up his mystical body, the Church. By his birth and life with Mary and Joseph, Jesus our Lord reveals the central importance of family to all who seek to grow in love of God and neighbour as his disciples.

Related Concepts:

LOVE
INTERDEPENDENCE
RESPECT
RELATIONSHIP
INTIMACY
SEXUALITY
SERVICE
COMMUNITY
SOCIETY
SACRIFICE
PERSONAL GROWTH / DEVELOPMENT
TRADITION
TRINITY
HUMAN DIGNITY
MARRIAGE
HOLINESS
DISCIPLESHIP
VOCATION
Corresponding Ontario Catholic School Graduate Expectations:
 
CGE1f Seeks intimacy with God and celebrates communion with God, others and creation through prayer and worship
CGE2a Listens actively and critically to understand and learn in light of gospel values
CGE2c Presents information and ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others
CGE2e Uses and integrates the Catholic faith tradition, in the critical analysis of the arts, media, technology and information systems to enhance the quality of life
CGE3a Recognizes there is more grace in our world than sin and that hope is essential in facing all challenges
CGE4a Demonstrates a confident and positive sense of self and respect for the dignity and welfare of others
CGE4b Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability
CGE4h Participates in leisure and fitness activities for a balanced and healthy lifestyle
CGE5a Works effectively as an interdependent team member
CGE6a Relates to family members in a loving, compassionate and respectful manner
CGE6b Recognizes human intimacy and sexuality as God given gifts, to be used as the Creator intended
CGE6c Values and honours the important role of the family in society
CGE6d Values and nurtures opportunities for family prayer
CGE6e Ministers to the family, school, parish, and wider community through service
CGE7c Seeks and grants forgiveness