From the corner office for Jan. 1, 2023

From the Corner Office is Father Mike's weekly bulletin column.

Continuuuuuaaal - Merry Christmas! Today we celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God. This feast is one to celebrate Mary as the Mother of Jesus (God) and also our mother. St. John would say, the New Eve. The readings from the Book of Numbers, the Responsorial Psalm and (even) St. Paul in his letter to the Galatians all speak of our blessings. The portion from Book of Numbers is itself a blessing, “The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace!” The response requesting, “May God bless us…” While St. Paul says we are no longer slaves but heirs! The gospel reading pulls together the Christmas message to the shepherds from the angel and they go forth and “…they made known the message that has been to them about the child.” We need to go forward and do the same! Remembering that like in the times of the shepherds, “All who heard it were amazed…” Let’s go out and amaze people!

Fr. Mike

From the Pastor’s Desk:

So, is it all over? Did you already put away the Christmas tree and the decorations? I know that, personally, I am still working on my Christmas cards and notes! Yes, I like to fully use the ENTIRE Christmas Season. There is something to be said about savoring the season. We can continue to thank all those who helped with the cleaning and the decorations of the church and the entire campus. The clean-up will happen and the green vestments will return to the closet, but for now – let’s simply savor the season and all our blessings!