Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As we enter a new chapter in our nation’s history with the inauguration of President Trump, let us remember that our ultimate hope and trust are anchored in God, who reigns above all earthly powers. Scripture reminds us in Romans 13:1 that there is no authority except that which God has established, encouraging us to pray for and support those in leadership, regardless of our personal perspectives.

This tradition is an invitation to reflect on our calling as Christians to be peacemakers, to love our neighbors, and to work for justice. Let us commit to being sources of encouragement and unity in a time where division often prevails. Whatever challenges or opportunities lie ahead, let us hold fast to the words of Jeremiah 29:11, “for I know the plans I have for you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Together, let us place our trust in God's faithful plan, one we often don’t understand or comprehend, and strive to be lights in our communities, reflecting Christ's love and hope in our words and actions. Let us enter into this time of political transition with prayerful hearts, seeking God’s wisdom and guidance for our leaders and ourselves. And let us take comfort and find hope in this truth, while leaders come and go, God’s kingdom remains unshakable.

Today’s gospel reminds us how we are called to give witness to the unshakable kingdom of God. We hear how Jesus transforms simple water into the choicest wine. It is a fitting sign of what Jesus has been sent by God to do: to transform our world from the brokenness of sin and self-centeredness into God’s banquet table of generosity, hope and healing. In Jesus, our Christ, the watered-down wine of fear and doubt is replaced with the “new wine” of compassion and gratitude for the life God has given us, recognizing the honor and respect for every human being as a child of God. The presence of God’s very life living within us and in our communities, cannot be undermined or diminished by anything going on around us – good or bad. To live with true joy, true peace, true generosity and hope is to create a landscape all around us that shows all God’s kingdom remains unshakable!

With you a Christian. For you a priest.

Father Carl Morello
Pastor
Ascension and St. Edmund Parish
St. Catherine of Siena – St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish

This week, January 18-25 is The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. Christian Unity has been celebrated since 1894 with the Vatican’s more formal involvement since 1968. This week, study another religion. The more we know about other religions, the better we appreciate the fruits of Christianity and what makes us uniquely Catholic. Let us pray for one another and our brothers and sister in faith.ion. The more we know about other religions, the better we appreciate the fruits of Christianity and what makes us uniquely Catholic. Let us pray for one another and our brothers and sister in faith.