"We all know that families, especially young families, are often 'racing' from one place to another, with lots to do. But did you ever think that this 'racing' could be the race of faith? Christian families are missionary families," he explained.
The family lives out the work of evangelization "in their everyday life, doing every day things, preserving the family, as they bring the salt and leaven of faith to everything!"
The Pontiff ended the Mass with a special prayer for families. As he stood in front of an icon of Jesus' own family, he prayed that the "Holy Family of Nazareth" might aid in contemplating "the beauty of communion in true love."
"Renew in us the value of silence," he implored, "make our families circles of prayer and transform them into little domestic Churches, renew the desire for holiness, sustain the noble efforts of work, of education, of listening, of mutual understanding and forgiveness."
As the sun broke through the fog over St. Peter's Square, Pope Francis led the crowds in the Angelus, entrusting families to Mary's maternal care. "Let us pray together, Mary, queen of the family, pray for us!" he said.
Many families of both local and international pilgrims had travelled to Rome to celebrate the "day for the family" held especially as a part of the Year of Faith.
Saturday's activities included a pilgrimage to the tomb of St. Peter and a celebration event in St. Peter's Square in the evening. Prior to Mass on Sunday morning, there was a recitation of the Rosary and Confession was available in various languages.