By Robyn Bruggeman
February is traditionally dedicated to the Holy Family (Jesus, Mary and Joseph (JMJ)), inviting us to remember that our homes—just like the humble home of Nazareth—are meant to be places where love is learned, faith is lived and Christ is welcomed.
For inspiration and ideas on how to observe this month’s dedication to the Holy Family and unite yourselves more fully to them, tune in to the Living LIT podcast and YouTube channel (youtube.com/@LivingLITapostolate).
As we enter a new month, here are five beautiful feasts to mark simply and intentionally in your domestic church.
1. Feb. 2 – The Presentation of the Lord (Candlemas)
What we celebrate
Candlemas marks the moment Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the Temple—40 days after his birth—offering him to the Father. It’s also the purification of Mary and the prophetic encounter with Simeon and Anna. Christ is revealed as the Light to the Nations, which is why the Church traditionally blesses candles on this day.
How to live it LITurgically
Attend Mass and bring candles from home to be blessed.
Eat dinner
by candlelight (remembering that Jesus is the Light of the World).
Read Luke 2:22-40 together.
2. Feb. 3 – St. Blaise
What we celebrate
St. Blaise was a fourth-century bishop known for his miraculous healing, especially of throat ailments. On his feast, the Church traditionally offers the Blessing of Throats, invoking his intercession for protection from illness.
How to live it LITurgically
Attend Mass for the Blessing of Throats as a family.
Pray a short prayer at home: “St. Blaise, we ask your intercession over our health, pray for us.”
Make a simple “warming” meal: soup, tea, honey lemon, something soothing for throats!
3. Feb. 8 – St. Josephine Bakhita
What we celebrate
St. Josephine Bakhita, a former slave from Sudan who became a Canossian sister in Italy, is a radiant witness to dignity, forgiveness and the redeeming love of Christ. She is the patron of survivors of human trafficking.
How to live it LITurgically
Share her powerful story around the table.
Offer a family prayer for victims of trafficking and for all who fight to end it.
Do a small act of almsgiving or charity in her honor.
Light a candle (even from Candlemas!) for those still in captivity.
4. Feb. 11 – Our Lady of Lourdes
What we celebrate
Mary appeared to St. Bernadette in Lourdes, France, revealing herself as the Immaculate Conception and offering the healing love of God to the world. Lourdes is a place of miracles, conversions and the tender maternal care of Our Lady.
How to live it LITurgically
Pray a Rosary or even a single decade for the sick.
Keep holy water in your home and use it.
Watch a short video about Lourdes with your kids or read Bernadette’s story.
Get in the practice of blessing your children with holy water as you tuck them in at night.
Make a simple French-inspired treat (baguettes, pastries or even crepes).
5. Feb. 22 – The Chair of St. Peter
What we celebrate
This feast honors Christ’s gift of authority to Peter and the unity of the Church under the papacy. The “chair” symbolizes the teaching role and shepherding mission entrusted to St. Peter and his successors.
How to live it LITurgically
Pray for the Holy Father (Pope Leo) by name during family prayer.
Share with your kids why we love and follow the pope (unity, teaching, stability).
Read Matthew 16:13-19—the moment Jesus entrusts his Church to Peter. (Peter is the first pope. All popes can be traced back to him and Jesus Christ founding the Catholic Church.)
Make a simple family “chair” connection: place a special chair at dinner for Jesus.
Fun with food: Make edible chairs using graham crackers, frosting and candy.
Want more ideas to help you live the life of the Church at home? Subscribe to the Living LIT Podcast, where we share practical liturgical living tips, encouragement for your domestic church, and conversations with incredible guests.
