December 31, 2023 The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph
To My Spiritual Family of Holy Redeemer and St. Anthony:
A Blessed 2024: “Behold, I make all things new (Rev 21:4).” What an awesome scripture! For indeed, Jesus Christ does exactly that – he makes all things new! There is a great praise piece by Hillsong Worship entitled: “New Wine.” It is definitely worth a listen. The song reminds us that as the old passes away (sometimes painfully), God is always making new. He is doing new things. Christ is transforming each one of us into a “new creation (2 Cor 5:17).” At the end of an old calendar year and the beginning of a new one, the Church traditionally sings the “Te Deum,” a hymn of praise to God Almighty. In your life, what has transpired over this past year that makes you want to shout for joy to God? Do it! Thank him! Praise him! And what might need to be made new in your life? Humbly bring that before the throne of God in prayer, as well. May each of you have a truly blessed and beautiful New Year!
The Indispensable Family: Family life is at the very heart of God’s plan for humanity. The feast that we celebrate today makes that abundantly clear. Jesus Christ, the Savior of all people, was himself born into a family. He lived the typical life that so characterizes familial relationships with all their joys and struggles. The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph is certainly our model for living family life well. Their home in Nazareth was a place of prayer. They faithfully participated in the religious rites. Jesus, Mary and Joseph loved God, one another, and neighbor. They even loved their enemies. May you and I do the same.
Epiphany Concert with Christine Porter: Next Sunday, January 7 – Epiphany Sunday – Christine Porter and friends will be leading us in prayer and song during the 2nd annual Epiphany Concert in Holy Redeemer Church. Last year’s event was a joyful celebration of God’s presence in our lives, and this year’s Epiphany Concert promises to again provide wonderful music, sincere prayer, and valuable time together with friends and our parish family. It will be a concert worthy of kings! I hope that you all can be there!
Tithing Our Blessings: Again in this upcoming year, we will be tithing our parish blessings by giving 10% of our monthly collections to groups who serve the Church, care for the poor, or provide comfort to those in need. When this weekend’s collection is tabulated and the current year comes to an end, we will have given roughly $30,000 in 2023 tithing. That is solely because of God’s goodness and your generosity. Thank you! The initial tithe of 2024 will go to support a group who is very close to us, but also easily forgotten: the patients at Warren State Hospital. The folks who reside there are often in need of basic necessities, and they appreciate the occasional special party or treat as well. Samantha Whitaker, one of our parishioners, coordinates WSH patient activities. We know that she will distribute this January tithe in excellent ways!
Mary, Mother of the Redeemer – Pray for us! Our Lady of Guadalupe – Pray for us! St. Anthony – Pray for us! St. Joseph – Pray for us!