September 17, 2019

Pope Francis calls “I’m sorry” one of the magic words of marriage. Be quick to offer these healing words when you harm your spouse or children, no matter how small the offense.

September 16, 2019

Generosity does not mean never saying “no.” Boundaries are important in every relationship. If you feel stretched too thin, check your priorities and pray for guidance in when to say “yes” and when to say “no.”

September 15, 2019

“Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.” (Lk 15:6) Every family has its “lost sheep.” Pray today for estranged loved ones to make their way back to the fold, and for the charity to rejoice at their every step closer to God.

September 14, 2019

Married couples are a reminder of Christ’s gift of love on the Cross (St. John Paul II). Lord Jesus, help all families carry their crosses joyfully today!

September 13, 2019

Keeping a journal is a great way to record God’s providence in your family’s life. Even writing a paragraph or two each night will become something wonderful to look back on.

September 12, 2019

Today is the feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary! Pray the Rosary – or even just a decade – with your family today in honor of Our Lady and try to notice how many times you say Mary’s name.

September 11, 2019

“Unless you become like a child…” Children are wonderful at being absorbed in the present moment. Try to imitate their whole-hearted attention to the present today.

September 10, 2019

If you are praying for someone, let them know! “I’m praying for you” (sincerely meant) is a wonderful gesture of kindness. This includes your spouse and children.

September 9, 2019

True love between spouses, which images Christ’s love for the Church, inspires husbands and wives to continually seek each other out for advice, affection, and affirmation. Encourage your spouse today and remind him/her that you are there no matter what!

September 8, 2019

“For the deliberations of mortals are timid, and unsure are our plans.” (Wis 9:14) How true this can ring for married couples at times! Pray to the Holy Spirit when you feel “timid” and “unsure” and ask for the Lord’s guidance.

September 7, 2019

Many people are back in school now. The family is a school of love; look for opportunities every day to learn a little more how to love.

September 6, 2019

Have you tried this lately? Replace the word “love” in 1 Cor 13 with your name for a “litmus test” of where you need to grow: “John is patient, Mary is kind….” etc.

September 5, 2019

Time spent with your spouse is precious! Try to be truly present to him/her by detaching from social media and other technologies as much as possible.

September 4, 2019

Are you and your spouse struggling to pray together? Check out the For Your Marriage article “How to Pray with your spouse: 4 simple steps” for tips: http://pre2018.foryourmarriage.org/how-to-pray-with-your-spouse-four-simple-steps/

September 3, 2019

Instead of becoming quickly offended by your spouse’s words, ask for clarity first.

September 2, 2019

This Labor Day, pray for families dealing with unemployment or underemployment. If possible, help a family who is facing this trial.

September 1, 2019

“When you hold a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind” (Lk 14:1, 7-14). Jesus reminds us that we ought to reach out to all people within our local communities. Consider inviting a new person to your dinner table this week.

August 31, 2019

Even though family life can be stressful sometimes, remember to laugh and be joyful nonetheless.

August 30, 2019

Self-care is a must in order to properly care for others. Consider getting a massage or going for a jog today; encourage your spouse to do the same!

August 29, 2019

Today we celebrate the martyrdom of John the Baptist, who died witnessing to Christ and the sanctity of marriage. May God give us the same courage in our own day!

August 28, 2019

What is your favorite board or card game? Collaborate with your spouse and plan a game night at home!

August 27, 2019

St. Monica never ceased praying for the conversion of her son, St. Augustine. May all mothers mirror St. Monica and continue to courageously pray for their children, no matter what.

August 26, 2019

Do you remember where you and your spouse went on your first date? Revisit the location or re-create the scene.

August 25, 2019

“Strive to enter through the narrow gate” (Lk 13:22-30). Jesus reminds us today that His way is not the easy way. Let us pray that we have the courage to trust and follow the Lord always.

August 24, 2019

If an issue arises in your marriage, communicate directly with your spouse. Talking with others about the problem will not solve it. Keep personal issues between you and your spouse.

August 23, 2019

If something is weighing on you, go to your spouse for emotional and physical support. Remember that he/she is there for you!

August 22, 2019

Today is the feast day of the Queenship of Mary! Mary, Queen of Heaven and Earth, intercede on behalf of us and our families.

August 21, 2019

God reveals Himself to us in mysterious ways. What are some of the ways that God has revealed Himself to you and your family members in the last year? Contemplate and make note of these.

August 20, 2019

Looking for a fun family night at home? Find old home videos and reminisce with family members. Don’t forget to watch wedding videos too!

August 19, 2019

Marriages and families glorify God! All words and actions between family members ought to reflect the joy and unconditional love of the Lord.

August 18, 2019

“In this world you will have trouble; but take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). It can be discouraging for families to remain hopeful amidst daily violent occurrences. However, Jesus’ words in the Gospel today bring us hope.

August 17, 2019

As long as the summer months are still here, embrace the warm weather! Drive to a local state park and go for a hike or long walk with your spouse.

August 15, 2019

On this feast of the Assumption of Mary, pray about how you and your family can grow in holiness, with Mary as your model.

August 14, 2019

The stage of ‘falling in love’, while beautiful and irreplaceable, can fade in the later years of a marriage. True Lasting love is a product of intentionality, choice and sacrifice. Jesus’ death on the cross is proof of this.

August 13, 2019

Sunsets are one of the best things about summertime. Go out and watch the sunset this evening with family members and friends!

August 12, 2019

Looking to get away for the weekend? Consider taking a quick vacation with your spouse to “recharge” before the summer ends. Google search “best weekend getaways near me” for ideas!

August 11, 2019

“Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival” (Lk 12:35-40). Let us remember today that we ultimately belong to God, and let us pray that we always seek His will before our own.

August 10, 2019

Children first learn what love is from their parents. Let us remember to set a good example for children so that they learn to love others well.

August 9, 2019

In the midst of arguments, fight against the problem and not against your spouse. Remember that you and your spouse are on the same team.

August 8, 2019

When you feel frustrated, silence can sometimes be the better alternative. Think before you speak, and take time to decide how best to respond to your spouse.

August 7, 2019

Go out of your way today to encourage your spouse. Words of affirmation are a symbol of hope and love.

August 6, 2019

All relationships are unique; avoid comparing your marriage to other marriages, and remember to appreciate your spouse for who he/she is.

August 5, 2019

In moments when your spouse may feel discouraged, offer him/her words of affirmation.

August 4, 2019

“Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life does not consist of possessions” (Lk 12:13-21). Let us remember today to be rich in love for God.

August 3, 2019

God is the author of love. Pray for strength and guidance to love your spouse more, today and every day.

August 2, 2019

The summer months allow extra time for prayer. Schedule additional prayer time with family members.

August 1, 2019

Adventurous dates are unpredictable; they provide the opportunity for couples to trust each other more, to embrace the uncertainty of their adventure, and to bond overall. Plan an adventurous date with your spouse!