My dear parishioners, despite this past year deserving to be forgotten for its troubles, Christ Our Shepherd led all of us to “springs of living water,” to slake our thirst for the “grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit.” [Rev 7:17; ROMAN MISSAL, Introductory Rites 2011]
Through grace, the Son of God gave us rest in green pastures, beside still waters. With love, our heavenly father embraced us on the very path that leads to him. In communion, the Holy Spirit gathered us together, anointing us with peace, righteousness and joy. [cf Psa 23:2; Lk 15:20; Rom 14:17] Would that we cherished these gifts to the full! May the Most Holy Trinity remove all our doubts and strengthen our feeble faith in the heavenly promises!
As Our Lord’s nativity drew near, I witnessed many instances of simple charity, remarkable for their intensity and joy. You gave generously to the poor, visited one another, and brought Christmas carols and gifts to many people forgotten or ignored this time of year. You supported our parish ministries and charities. You warmly welcomed our visitors and new families.
Above all, coping with difficult and stressful circumstances, you regard each other with the gentleness of Christ. You treasure the Church’s liturgies, offering worthy veneration of the saints and adoration to God, the author all good things. You share stories of faith and determination; these strengthen everyone. I visited many of you this past Advent and Christmas and can testify to God of your faith’s “confidence to audacity.” [Saint Therese of Lisieux] You build up the Body of Christ at Saint Philip by the power of God’s grace, love and communion.
Thanking God always for grace upon grace, I remember you in my prayers, especially those who reached out to me in a special way at Christmas. The beautiful cards, words of encouragement, cookies and fudge were delightful. Your little gifts showed great care and thoughtfulness. I cannot thank you enough for the joy and comfort they inspire. I am truly refreshed in the community of our Church.
Our celebration today of the Baptism of the Lord marks the end of the Christmas season. If there’s any New Year’s resolution worthy of the name, resolve then to “pray for the first grace” always. [Saint Therese] As we look forward to a new year and the many joyful occasions it will bring, keep in mind this heartfelt thought from Saint Francis de Sales . . .
BEHOLD the dear infant Jesus, and adore him fervently. Contemplate his poverty and humility in imitation of his most holy mother and of Saint Joseph. Repose near him as sweetly as you can. He will not fail to love your heart, void as you find it of tenderness and feeling. Nothing will be wanting to you, since you will be in the presence of that holy infant.
ABIDE THERE, and learn of him how meek and humble he is, how simple and amiable. See how lovingly he has written your name in the depth of his divine heart, which beats on that couch of straw from the impassioned zeal it has for our advancement, and heaves not one single sigh unto his father in which you have not a part, nor a single movement of his Spirit except for your happiness. Sincerely in the hearts of Jesus and Mary.
My dear parishioners, despite this past year deserving to be forgotten for its troubles, Christ Our Shepherd led all of us to “springs of living water,” to slake our thirst for the “grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God and the communion of the Holy Spirit.” [Rev 7:17; ROMAN MISSAL, Introductory Rites 2011]