The marriage of Mary and Joseph, and the birth of the Son of God

The very center of the theme "Life in Nazareth" is Jesus.

The Nicene Creed affirms:

"I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ,

the Only Begotten Son of God,

born of the Father before all ages.

God from God, Light from Light,

true God from true God,

begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father;

through him all things were made.

For us men and for our salvation

he came down from heaven,

and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary,

and became man."

- In the theme "Life in Nazareth," this first part is concerned with the foundation and the beginning of salvation: Jesus, Son of God, is born in a human family.

The following sections focus on the consequences of this mystery:

- As true man, he is born into a human family, and he needs an education for his growth, just as he needs bread.

- As true God, Jesus inspires and guides the prayer life of Nazareth, and his bright example shows us the importance of the family.

- The Son of God assumes all human life, especially human work, so that his 30 years in Nazareth are an integral part of the mystery of Redemption.

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Françoise Breynaert