National Family and Life Week 2026: "I Am With You Always" in the Eparchy of Edmonton

The Meaning, Value, and Goal of National Family and Life Week

National Family and Life Week, observed annually across Canada from May 10-17, 2026, calls the faithful to celebrate the family as the “fundamental cell of society” and “image of the Triune God” (Pope Francis). Organized by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), this week reminds us that Christ accompanies every family – in joy, struggle, generational bonds, vulnerability, enduring love, and mission.

Its value lies in strengthening the domestic church amid modern challenges: division, illness, loneliness, and secular pressures. The 2026 theme, “I am with you always” (Mt 28:20, NRSV), offers hope that Jesus walks with parents, children, grandparents, couples, and the vulnerable.

The goal? Unite parishes in prayer and action, fostering unity, service, and evangelization. Through daily reflections, we pray for specific family members and discern concrete Christian support – transforming faith into loving deeds.

Bishop David Motiuk’s Pastoral Letter to Families

Eparchial Bishop David Motiuk shares this heartfelt message:

Dear Families:

2026 National Family and Life Week – May 10-17

I am delighted to bring greetings to parents, grandparents, and your families as we celebrate this year’s National Family and Life Week focussing on the theme “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20).

As we celebrate families this year, I am reminded of my joy-filled participation in the Eighth World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia… [full letter as previously quoted, ending with] I pray that God who is Love truly blesses you and your family!

Sincerely in Christ, + Most Rev. David Motiuk, Eparchial Bishop.

Click here to read Bishop’s Letter

How to Participate: Daily Prayer Guide with People Groups and Christian Actions

Join parishes, Eparchy-wide, May 10-17. Each day features NRSV Scripture, prayer, specific people to intercede for, and practical support as Christians. Post #NFLW2026 to share your journey.

Day 1 – Sunday, May 10 (Mother’s Day): Family Unity

Scripture: “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age” (Mt 28:20)
Pray for: Divided families, single parents seeking reconciliation
Support as Christians: Share promo video; host family prayer for unity.

Day 2 – Monday, May 11: Christ in Daily Moments

Pray for: Families with routine tensions, exhausted parents
Support as Christians: Bring a family photo to Liturgy for blessing; invite neighbours.

Day 3 – Tuesday, May 12: Joy as Strength

Scripture: “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Neh 8:10)
Pray for: Depressed families, heavy caregivers
Support as Christians: Share joyful memories; organise a joy-sharing gathering.

Day 4 – Wednesday, May 13 (Our Lady of Fatima): Strength in Struggles

Scripture: “Do not be afraid, for I am with you” (Is 41:10)
Pray for: Ill families, the unemployed, and the financial crisis
Support as Christians: Deliver meals/childcare; evening prayer for burdened homes.

Day 5 – Thursday, May 14 (St. Matthias): Across Generations

Scripture: “One generation shall commend your works to another” (Ps 145:4)
Pray for: Forgotten grandparents, elderly in care, childless couples
Support as Christians: Visit with children; record oral histories; weekly calls.

Day 6 – Friday, May 15: Serving the Vulnerable

Scripture: “Let the little children come to me” (Mk 10:14)
Pray for: Unborn, single mothers, foster families, refugees
Support as Christians: Aid food banks/pregnancy centres; mentor youth/newcomers.

Day 7 – Saturday, May 16: Enduring Love

Scripture: “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Cor 13:7)
Pray for: Struggling marriages, widows, long-term caregivers
Support as Christians: Couples pray together; befriend isolated spouses.

Day 8 – Sunday, May 17 (Ascension): Families on Mission

Scripture: “Go therefore and make disciples…and remember, I am with you always” (Mt 28:19-20)
Pray for: Missionary families, home catechists
Support as Christians: Host Bible study; neighbourhood service projects.