The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph

Dear Parishioners,

The Christmas celebration leads us towards a lot of introspection.  What is it about this holiday that causes so much nostalgia?  Very often we do not remember the joyful Christmases, but we recall the sad Christmases. 

When I remember Christmases past, I recall the Christmas my aunt died.  She was making Christmas pies, preparing for dinner the next day.  She fell over backwards and died of a massive heart attack.  She had thirteen children and most of them were still at home.  It was a tragedy and many people reached out to try to console my uncle and my cousins. 

My family decided to go ahead and have Christmas dinner together that sad day.  It was thought that a sense of normalcy was needed.  The dinner was not joyful but eating together as a family brought calm and there was a sense of peace in all the turmoil.  It was helpful for all of us as we processed the grief we felt.  We were less afraid because we had each other.

Hopefully, the message of Christmas is a message of hope.  We face many struggles, but we have two great gifts that we need to remember.  We have the gift of faith and the gift of the church.  These two gifts can stabilize our lives in periods of struggle. Sacred Heart is a place for us to gather for Eucharist in times of joy and difficulty.  When we need support, often, we find it as we pray with our brothers and sisters in Christ at church.  Thank you to all of you who help our parish to minister to others.  Let’s pray for each other as the New Year approaches.

May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you.

Fr. Mark

P.S.  Fr. Matthew and I would like to thank all those who have sent cards and gifts to the rectory.  We hope that you enjoy this special time and that your family celebrations are richly blessed.