As we embark on the new Year, ask yourself, what is God calling you to do and to be in 2025? Pope Francis reminds us that we are called to be a missionary church that moves beyond its walls to bring light, love, and healing to the world. Self-reflection has its place, but we risk becoming spiritually stagnant if we focus inward too much. Instead, God calls us outward—to serve others, to spread joy, and to share our gifts fully and authentically. How can we be agents of healing and communion? How can we follow the star of Christ’s light not just today but all year long? Remember, Christ came not just for those within the church but for everyone. Today, Father Pat McGrath challenges us to consider how we can be peace, hope, and love in our corners of the world.

As we wrap up 2024 and enter a new year, can you think of someone who stood by you during a tough time this past year? Someone who held your hand through a rough patch, offered words of encouragement when you felt like giving up, or reminded you that you weren’t alone?

Sometimes, we all need that kind of cheerleader in our lives—someone to reassure us that we’ve got this and remind us that they’ve got us. It’s that sense of security and confidence, knowing we’re not alone, that strengthens us to face whatever comes next.

Today, Father Tom Hurley gives us an uplifting message to remind us that no matter what, God always has us, so as we step into 2025, we can move forward with confidence, trusting in His presence and love.

This season invites us to reflect on belief—not just the magical kind tied to childhood, but a more profound belief in what could be. Believing is like dreaming: visualizing a better way and seeing a future full of peace, justice, and care for all. These beliefs—of more hope, joy, and love—are worth pursuing with our lives. When our belief feels fragile or fades, we can look to Mary, Elizabeth, and all mothers as sources of inspiration. Mothers see the best in us even when we cannot. They encourage us, love us unconditionally, and remind us how belief has the power to shape brighter futures. Let us hold onto belief—belief in others, in God, and in goodness. Today, Father Ed Foley invites us to pursue incarnation as an ongoing mystery, to believe with Mary’s courage, and to commit to the convictions that bring love, justice, and peace to our world as we celebrate Christmas 2024. Merry Christmas!

As we race to check off the final names on our Christmas shopping lists, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the busyness of the season. But what if the most meaningful gift doesn’t fit under the tree? What if your presence is the actual present — the idea of giving the gift of your time, attention, and love to those who need it most? By showing up for others in small but significant ways, we become ambassadors of grace, peace, and love, spreading the true spirit of Christmas to our families, workplaces, and neighborhoods.

Today, Father Pat McGrath invites us to pause and reflect on how we can bring joy through our actions, create deeper connections, and prepare our hearts for Christmas.

Picture Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem: winding roads, changing elevations, unexpected obstacles, and moments of quiet beauty. A physical journey, yes—but also deeply symbolic of the spiritual and emotional journeys we all undertake.

Life, much like any trip, is filled with twists and turns, stretches of smooth highway, and patches of rocky terrain. Even if we’re not traveling to a specific destination, we are always moving—toward our goals, our dreams, and the purposes God has set before us.

Today, Father Joe Simmons invites us to reflect on where we are on our journey—spiritually, emotionally, or physically. He encourages us to treasure the path we’re on and to walk alongside one another, offering support and companionship as we move forward together toward Christmas.

The holiday season is full of hustle and bustle—the rush to buy gifts, hang decorations, host parties, and navigate the emotions that often come with this time of year. At times, it’s the joy of happy memories, while at other times, it’s the ache of longing for loved ones or unfulfilled hopes. These forces can make us feel like we’re swimming upstream, caught in a current of chaos that leaves us drained and out of sync with God. But Advent calls us to something different—a chance to tune out the commotion and into Christ’s presence. It’s a season to step into the God Dimension and notice the love, gratitude, and hope surrounding us, even in the busiest times.

See the love in every glowing decoration, every gathering of friends, and every gift exchanged. Look beyond the surface to the hearts behind those acts of kindness. In those moments, recognize the presence of Christ and allow it to fill you with peace so you can share that love with others. Today, Father Tom Hurley reminds us that Advent is a time to prepare, anticipate, and deepen our connection with God and, amidst all the chaos, helps us embrace God’s love and find peace.