Our New Year has begun in the midst of the sustained impact of the COVID-19 virus. This past Friday we celebrated the Solemnity of Mary, as we honored Mary as the Mother of God. This Sunday we celebrate the feast of the Epiphany of the Lord. On this day, we focus on the wise men who were on a difficult journey of faith to encounter the Lord. They faced many risks and obstacles on their way including the danger inherent in traveling on a difficult and arduous journey.
Like the wise men, we also are on a difficult journey of faith to encounter the Lord. Fortunately, like the wise men, we do not undertake our spiritual journey alone. We journey and persevere as a community of faith, despite the risks and obstacles which we may encounter on a daily basis. As a community of faith, we assist each other in overcoming the many obstacles we face.
As we celebrate the Epiphany, as disciples, we can lift each other up spiritually as we reaffirm our commitment to strive to give honor and glory to the Lord who loves us, always progressing with a spirit of hope.
This spirit of hope is reflected in this prayer of “Hope for a New Year”:
As we reflect on this prayer, we are challenged to place our trust in the Lord in the midst of all the difficulties and uncertainties we continue to encounter. At this time of the year, many of us make resolutions to renew or revitalize our lives in certain ways. We may resolve to lose weight or exercise more frequently, or be more punctual. However, we should also strive to reflect on ways we can renew or revitalize our lives spiritually. Maybe we can resolve to pray each day with our family or with a friend, or read sacred scripture for a brief period each day. Maybe we can resolve to assist someone in need through the Saint Vincent DePaul Society or some other worthwhile ministry, or participate in a brief retreat.
Whatever we do, we are reminded that this New Year provides us with a great opportunity to more effectively live our faith, grow as disciples, and set a good example for those we encounter in the course of our daily lives.
On behalf of Fr. Bill, Fr. Michael, our Deacons and staff, I wish you and your families a happy, healthy, and holy New Year.