An Apostolic Exhortation from Bishop Olmsted to Husbands and Wives, Mothers and Fathers

How to Read this Exhortation

Brothers and Sisters, I ask that you read through this exhortation prayerfully and slowly, with a listening heart. In this way, you can receive what the Lord has for you, fitting for your own journey and your family’s journey. Many of you, though from strong and intact families, have yet to hear family life presented as a beautiful, noble and joy-filled life that can certainly be lived with God’s grace. Others of you give thought regularly to your family’s mission, and are looking for a challenge; I trust you will find it.

I also am keenly aware that for many, the family pain that you experienced, or are experiencing now, has injured the hopes that such happiness in a family could be attainable. Do not be afraid. Great hope remains in Jesus Christ who has overcome the world. If this place of suffering is where you find yourself at this time, you may profit by reading Chapter 4 first, on suffering, sin and healing.

+ Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted

The recommendations made by Bishop Olmsted in Complete My Joy have changed the marriages and lives of people just like you. Watch:

Don’t despair; your marriage can be great, too!

Stay-home orders, virtual learning, working from home, financial worries, and a global pandemic may have put many stressors on your marriage, but these are not the end of the story. By the grace of God, your marriage can be rejuvenated and joyful! Bishop Olmsted invites you to invest in your marriage, to embrace the invitation laid out in Complete My Joy, and to reignite the love you have for each other and that Christ has for you. Learn more soon.