Resolution to Proclaim 1994 as the Michigan International Year of the Family

Whereas families provide the natural framework for transmitting our faith, values and culture and are vital for the emotional and material support essential to the proper growth and development of their members, particularly infants and children; and

Whereas men and women joined in marriage share God’s love and power as Creator by their free and responsible cooperation in transmitting the gift of human life and are the first and most important educators of their children; and

Whereas families form children in a loving community and each member of the family shares in the responsibility to build this unique community of love; and

Whereas through families, children should come to develop a life-long, commitment to support their community through service to the poor and the disadvantaged through action for justice and peace; and

Whereas while society must share many of the family’s responsibilities toward their members, it can never replace the traditional family structure; and

Whereas the Catholic Church supports policies which have the good of the family as their focus because strong, stable families are essential to society; therefore, now be it,

Resolved that the Michigan Catholic Conference Board of Directors recognizes that 1994 is the Michigan International Year of the Family; and be it further

Resolved that the Michigan Catholic Conference Board of Directors calls upon all people of the state to summon the will and ways to make our society a welcoming and decent place for all families; and be it further

Resolved that we make the commitment to reach out and care for the families in our midst who need our help; and be it further

Resolved that the Catholic community be called upon to become a persistent, informed and committed voice for children and families; and be it finally

Resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Lieutenant Governor of the State of Michigan in her role as chairperson of the Michigan International Year of the Family.