January 1st

Happy New Year!  Today we celebrate the first day of the New Year!  It is a day when we honor Mary as the Mother of God.  It is a day to honor her as the Mother of Jesus.  Mary played a very special role in the life of Jesus and does so in our lives too.  May we pray this day for our families as we celebrate the beginning of a new year.  “O God our Father, by the light of the Holy Spirit, lead us to be thankful for the gift of faith.  May we grow in our relationship with Jesus, your Son.  May we be confident witnesses to Christian hope and joy to all we meet.  We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord.  Amen”

For the past 50 years the Church has also celebrated World Peace Day on January 1^st.  As we reflect on Pope Francis’ message this day may our homes and hearts be filled with love, peace and joy always.  "I pray that the image and likeness of God in each person will enable us to acknowledge one another as sacred gifts endowed with immense dignity. Especially in situations of conflict, let us respect this, our “deepest dignity”, and make active nonviolence our way of life." ---Pope Francis

Pat Schifini, OSU