Sunday, January 3rd - The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord
CHEERS! - A MESSAGE FROM THE PASTOR
Cheers!
Cheers! And Happy New Year! 2020 is history and 2021 is here! Each new year always brings the hope of a better year, a new beginning and, maybe, a fresh look on life! Well, for most of us, I presume, we are so glad that 2020 is gone. It was a year of unbelievable stress, concern and fear. But it’s all behind us. So, let’s look forward to this new year with hope and let’s pray that God bless us abundantly.
As I have often done in the past, I will use the letters of “Happy New Year” to reflect on 2021:
H Health: of course! May all get the vaccine and may we see an end to this pandemic. A Arts: that is, may we return to the movie theaters, to live productions at the Smith Center and to shows on the Strip.
P Peace: in our own lives, in our nation and throughout the world.
P Prosperity: for all of us, especially a return to work for those who were terminated or furloughed.
Y Yes: to the will of God, no matter how difficult that might be. Let us follow the example of Mary (whose feast we celebrate on January 1) and Joseph (to whom 2021 is dedicated); both of them said “yes”to God when each was asked to change their plans and follow God’s plan for them.
N Nation: may we come together as a united nation, putting aside our differences, and respecting our common goals and even our diversity.
E Energy: may we find renewed strength for our work, our recreation and, our projects and dreams.
W Wonder: may we enjoy nature and beauty and travel.
Y Youth: may our young people return to school — full time.
E Enthusiasm: may we be excited about the new possibilities and opportunities that lie before us.
A Appreciation: may we truly enjoy what we do have in our families and friends and let them know it often.
R Respect: let us try to understand and accept those who think differently, look different and live lives different than our own, realizing that we are all one family under God.
Happy New Year!
Fr. Bill