January 4, 2026 - Epiphany of the Lord
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
As we begin this New Year, I extend to you and your loved ones my warmest wishes for good health, abundant blessings of holiness, and prosperity of providing what is necessary for your family. May the year ahead be filled with God’s grace, peace, and guiding presence of Christ. I also wish to express my sincere gratitude to each of you for your continued support, kindness, and generosity to our parish and to us priests. Your faith, service, and care for one another are a true blessing to our parish, and they make Christ’s presence visible in our community.
On this beautiful feast of the Epiphany, the Church celebrates revelation. The word epiphany means “manifestation”—the showing forth of Christ to the world. In the visit of the Magi, we see that Jesus is not only the Savior of Israel, but the light of all nations. Guided by a star, these wise men from distant lands set out in faith, searching for truth, and they find it not in a palace, but in a child. The journey of the Magi speaks to the journey of every believer. They leave what is familiar, follow God’s light step by step, and persevere even when the path is uncertain. Their arrival at Bethlehem teaches us an important lesson: God often reveals Himself in unexpected ways and in humble places. The King of kings is found not on a throne, but in the arms of His mother.
The gifts the Magi offer are rich with meaning. Gold honors Jesus as King of the Universe. Frankincense recognizes Him as God and Priest that became the sacrifice. Myrrh points toward His suffering and death as a Prophet speaking the truth. Together, these gifts remind us that Christ comes to transform every part of our lives—our joys and sorrows, our hopes and sacrifices.
The Epiphany also challenges us. After encountering Christ, the Magi “returned to their country by another way.” A true meeting with Jesus always changes us. We are not meant to remain the same. Having seen His light, we are called to carry that light into the world—into our families, our workplaces, and our parish community. As we move forward into this New Year, may we be attentive to the signs of God’s presence around us. May we follow His light with trust, offer Him the best of what we have, and allow our encounter with Christ to shape the way we live. May the Lord who has been revealed to the nations bless our parish, reward your generosity, and guide us all by His light throughout the year ahead.
As you can see in our manger this year we have more elements to it. You may figure out what is new by looking at your pictures from the last year. I want to thank everyone once more for any help in all things that we do in our parish. I am always impressed by your kindness, service and collaboration in all things doing it for the Lord. May He as well be your reward today and always! Happy New Year to everyone! May God bless you and all your loved ones in all your needs, spiritual and material, with good health and prosperity! Happy New Year!!!
Fr. Stan
