A family is our first community and the most basic way in which the Lord gathers us, forms us, and acts in the world. The early church expressed this truth by calling the Christan family a "domestic church" or the church of the home. The point of teaching is simple, yet profound. As Christian families you not only belong to the church, but your daily life is a true expression of the church. (Follow the way of love: A Pastoral Message of the U.S. Catholic Bishops to Families)