Open Your Windows

Harare, Zimbabwe - The Faithful House

Dear Friends,

We recently heard from one of the husbands who participated in our Faithful House program in Harare, and his words struck a chord with me.

He said, “I used to be rude and unkind with my wife; I was a tyrant in my own home and my children feared me. But through this program my eyes and heart were opened, and I realized that such behavior had nothing to do with my love. My wife has always been loving and patient with me. She even calls me at work just to see how I’m doing. Over the weeks that have passed since completing this program, my attitude has changed. We now take time to talk as a couple. I’m spending more time with my children, and they seem much happier to be around me, and the “windows of forgiveness” in our home have been opened. Thank you!”

The Windows of Forgiveness

For those not familiar with the Faithful House program, it uses the metaphor of building a traditional thatched-roof house, with each part of the structure relating to building a strong marriage. The windows of a physical house open to light and fresh air. If the windows are never opened, the house remains dark, cold, and stale.  In the Faithful House, opening the windows of forgiveness allows the warm light of mercy to enter, removing the darkness that has gathered in our hearts. These windows should be opened daily.

As we look at the window of forgiveness, we acknowledge that every one of us falls short of meeting our goals and obligations. As St. Paul says, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) Jesus practiced, taught, and commanded forgiveness many times in the New Testament. He has shown us that only in forgiving others and in accepting forgiveness can the light in our houses be restored.

To open the window of forgiveness, we must seek repentance. Repentance means to “turn away from sin and dedicate oneself to a changed life.” Our friend from Zimbabwe, has certainly taken this message to heart.

In May we are returning to Zimbabwe to to train the first cohort of Faithful House couples to be facilitators within their own dioceses. We also hope to work with the Kenyan Council of Catholic Bishops to introduce this transformational program nationwide. In order to do that we need to raise $100,000. If you believe strong marriages and families are the foundation for creating a just and loving world, please consider contributing to our work.

May God bless you and your families, and thank you for your continued support. It is because of your generosity that families are able to repair and grow in God’s love.

Sincerely,

Jeff