December 29, 2024

I know that I join Father Louis and Fr. Finbar when I thank all those who blessed us with cards and gifts this Christmas season. It humbles us immensely to receive such statements of affection from you. Be assured of our prayers for you and your families throughout the New Year. Most especially, I would like to express my gratitude to all those who supported me in my recovery after my accident several months ago. Even though the recovery is much slower than I would like, I feel your prayerful support and best wishes on my behalf. Thank you time and again for your kindness. 

Many people came together to make Christmas at Assumption special this year. We thank the ladies of the Altar & Rosary Society and men from the Knights of Columbus for decorating the church, those who contributed to the flower fund to make these decorations possible, the music ministry under the direction of our talented director David Bird who spent hours of rehearsal time to provide us with the lovely music for the Christmas Masses, and all those who helped in any way by lending your time and talent. May the Newborn Savior bless your home and families with all his grace and love. 

Almost immediately after celebrating the Birth of Jesus, the Church places him in the context of a family by celebrating the Feast of the Holy Family. This observance impresses on us the fact that the Son of God became like us in all things except sin - even becoming part of a human family. It also invites and challenges us to look at our own families to see what we can do to improve our relationships with them. There are many broken families that often stem from tragic situations. Those who are part of situations like this need our prayers and support, not our judgment and condemnation. 

Family life is important because it is the basic building block of society. When family life suffers, society suffers as well To raise a family takes dedication and effort and is a vocation that entails much responsibility. Everyone needs to do his or her part to nuture and sustain family life. Families should pray together and spend time as a family. There is nothing that edifies me more than when I see families at Mass together. Family time is time well-spent. This is an investment that lasts and pays eternal dividends. All families of Assumption Parish are in my prayers this special day. 

Wednesday is New Year's Day. Mass for the Solemnity of Mary the Mother of God will be at 4:00 p.m. on December 31, and 7:30; 9:30; and 11:30 a.m. on January 1. Start the New Year with God's blessings. Both in our families and in our parish, we have much to thank God for. I think of the tremendous results for We Give Catholic and how so many people came together in support of our future plans for our parish campus. It is a privilege to serve as your priest and I am proud of what you can accomplish. Blessed and Happy New Year to all! May the Newborn Savior bring peace and happiness to your homes and families.