A Christmas Moment: Thursday January 1st 2026 #newyear #2026

Happy New Year! Today, the first day of 2026, is the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God.. Let us start the New Year with the sign of the Cross: in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.. My name is Pat Hughes. Today’s Gospel is Luke2:16-21 20 ‘And the shepherds went back glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as they had been told.  ‘As for Mary, she treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart.’ I love the themes of urgent joy as shown by the shepherds rushing to see the Christ child and their simple faith as evinced by sharing the Good News to all showing God’s universal salvation. These events led to Mary’s deep reflection on the meaning of “God with us” (Emmanuel) in their lives and the world. Through these themes we are invited to move to active discipleship, to treasure faith’s mysteries, and to proclaim salvation’s hope with a shepherd’s enthusiasm. Let us pray: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ, whose birth fills our hearts with hope and joy. Help us to be like the shepherds, proclaiming Your love with praise and gratitude. Teach us to reflect deeply on the mysteries of faith as Mary did, keeping Your Word close to our hearts. May the name of Jesus inspire us to live lives of humility, compassion, and trust in Your divine plan.In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen. Let this reflection fill you with peace as you enter the New Year. Thank you for joining us today.