Happy New Year! On Sunday, January 4th, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord. It is the manifestation of our Lord to the whole world; after being made known to the shepherds of Bethlehem He is revealed to the Magi who have come from the East to adore Him. Let us acknowledge and witness together this epiphanic revelation of God, whose salvation is for all.  

Following the Epiphany of the Lord, Catholic Canadians memorialize St. André Bessette and his deep devotion to Saint Joseph. Known as Brother André, he was the porter at College Notre Dame in Montreal, welcoming visitors and inviting them to pray through St. Joseph’s intercession. This led to the creation of a small chapel, which later became St. Joseph’s Oratory. As the patron of family caregivers, St. André’s intercession for the sick and afflicted can be sought by praying the attached prayer.

The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord commemorates the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. Jesus’ baptism reminds us of our mission to experience the presence of God within us, to acknowledge our own dignity as God’s children, and to appreciate the Divine Presence in others by honoring them, loving them and serving them in all humility.