This Sunday, the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, is designated as the Sunday of the Word of God. In 2019, Pope Francis instituted this day as the Sunday of the Word of God to remind us of the role of the Word of God in the life of the Church. In the Introduction to the Lectionary used to proclaim the readings at Mass, it explains that “In the hearing of God's word, the Church is built up and grows, and in the signs of the liturgical celebration, God's wonderful, past works in the history of salvation are presented anew as mysterious realities.

We’ve been blessed with Fr. Bill William’s ministry here at Holy Family Parish for over 3½ years. He has been a “God-send” to me serving as a partner in ministry as a Senior Assistant by sharing some of our weekend and daily Masses, funerals, anointings, and confessions. In that time, we have become dear friends as well as colleagues. Additionally, he has become very fond of the many members of our parish who have welcomed him as a special part of our community.

The start of a new year often prompts us to look back at what was, as well as to look ahead at what possibilities there might be. Besides the resolutions to shed the pounds added over time or to recommit to personal goals left unmet, a faith-focused approach to the new year could make quite a difference in how our days ahead unfold.

Recently I mailed out to all registered parishioners a copy of our parish Annual Financial Report. Along with the report, I usually include a request for you to make a once-a-year “grand” gift to the parish to assist with the cost of maintenance, repairs, and renovations since the weekly offertory collection revenue only covers our regular operating expenses.