Dear Friends in Christ,
In many cultures today is known as ‘Little Christmas’ and ‘Three Kings Day’. On this feast the practice of gift exchange takes place between family members and friends in honor of the gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh that were brought by the Magi to the Baby Jesus. I can only imagine the emotion that the Three Wise Men experienced when they encountered Christ. Having followed the beautiful light of the star, they prostrated themselves and did Him homage (Matthew 2:11). Their hearts were likely transformed by their meeting with Jesus as they returned home by another route. As we celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany during this Year of Faith, I pray that each of us may reflect upon our encounters with Christ. When we are blessed with grace-filled moments of the Lord’s Holy Presence, our hearts can be transformed to share our gifts and experience the beauty of conversion.
Thank you once again for making this Christmas Season especially memorable and special through your thoughts, prayers, presence and remembrances. Know that I will continue to pray for you, your loved ones and your intentions. Thank you for praying for all of our Priests and Religious Sisters. We may not see each other each day but may we meet each day in our prayers!
In Christ,
Very Rev. Stephen D. Parkes, V.F.
Pastor