Introduction to the Icon of the Holy Family for the World Meeting of Families: Pope Francis encourages families to look or gaze at the icon of the Holy Family.

Why? The word icon means an image. But it is more than a picture or photograph. When we read the bible with reverence we are not just reading words, we already are praying. It is the same with an icon. When we look on it with reverence – when we “gaze” on it – we are praying. God is speaking to us through the images and we are responding.

A copy of the icon will be distributed at the Christmas Masses.