As with every New Year celebration, our Catholic Church pauses to commemorate the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. It is no coincidence that our Church begins the secular new year with focusing on our Blessed Mother.
St. Ambrose once wrote,
“Nor was Mary less than was befitting the Mother of Christ. When the apostles fled, she stood before the Cross and with reverent gaze beheld her Son’s wounds, for she waited not for her child’s death, but the world’s salvation.”
What a beautiful image of hope that our Blessed Mother is for our Church. From the moment of the Immaculate Conception, she was hope for such a weary world in dire need of God’s grace and salvation.
As we begin a new year, it is my prayer that the Blessed Mother will be a source of hope for each of you. Whatever it is that you need during this new year, may she be your source of inspiration and guidance.
Additionally, the faculty and staff, parents and students and benefactors of Blessed Sacrament Catholic School congratulate Fr. Chris and Fr. Mese on their one-year anniversary. Our parish school has truly grown closer to Christ and the Blessed Mother through their leadership and presence.
I leave you with this special Irish blessing…
May the one who gave us Jesus child
And the whole world a life reborn
Mary, strong and meek, fierce and mild
Bless the new year that starts this morn
Protect us, guide us, heal our tears
Bring us love and hope and mighty faith
Exorcise all our foolish fears
And keep us warm with loving grace
May God bless you
The Father who made
The seconds and the years
The Son who lives in time
And the Spirit who leads the cosmic dance
In Christ’s peace and mercy,
Michael Fierro
Principal