Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God

53rd World Day of Peace

Readings of the Day
RB: Prologue 1-7
Mass: Nb 6:22-27; Resp Ps 67; Gal 4:4-7; Lk 2:16-21

When the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

HOLY MOTHER OF GOD,

PRAY FOR US.

As we start the new year reading from the Prologue of the Rule of Saint Benedict, it seems fitting to heed St Benedict's call. "First of all," writes Benedict, "every time you begin a good work, you must pray to God most earnestly to bring it to perfection" (RB Prol 4). May we remember this each and every time we begin a good work this year. This may be a help to us too as we reflect on and carry out the Holy Father's Message for this World Day of Peace.

The grace of God our Father is bestowed as unconditional love. Having received his forgiveness in Christ, we can set out to offer that peace to the men and women of our time. Day by day, the Holy Spirit prompts in us ways of thinking and speaking that can make us artisans of justice and peace.

May the God of peace bless us and come to our aid.

May Mary, Mother of the Prince of Peace and Mother of all peoples of the earth, accompany and sustain us at every step of our journey of reconciliation.

And may all men and women who come into this world experience a life of peace and develop fully the promise of life and love dwelling in their heart.

(Message of His Holiness Pope Francis for the Celebration of the 53rd World Day of Peace, 

January 1, 2020, from the Vatican December 8, 2019)

HEART OF JESUS, OUR PEACE AND OUR RECONCILIATION,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Today's photo: Our Lady of the Sign, through the hand of Sister Suzanne, OCSO.

© Gertrude Feick 2020