From the Desk of Fr. Barry - December 27, 2020

I hope this finds everyone in the true spirit of Christmas!  But remember, it’s not over!  This weekend we celebrate the Holy Family, next is the Epiphany, and then we close out the Christmas Season with the Baptism of  the Lord, going back to Ordinary time on the 11th.  These coming weekends serve as reminders that with any birth there is a new journey to discover Christ and that giving thanks follows. 
It becomes so easy to want to take down the decorations and continue or get back to life in the way it was before. That is precisely why the Church, in her great Wisdom, makes us aware through our upcoming readings that it’s not over.  Quite honestly, I have entertained the thought of keeping my Christmas tree up until the pandemic is completely over.  Maybe it’s out of laziness or not having the time, but in a real sense, it’s to not let go of this sacred moment. To keep focused on what this birth has brought with it. Examples of humility, love, obedience, and selflessness. Those are hard things to live out each and every day, and we need reminders. 
I’m not saying I’m going to keep my tree up, but I’m also not saying I’m going to take it down right away!  It helps to serve as that reminder. Gives hope. Gives comfort. Gives that great reminder Christ is now among us, dwelling in each and every one of our hearts!
As we remember the Holy family this weekend, we look at the courage of both Mary (her YES) and Joseph (his not turning away). We look at the center of our own families to notice the love, the caring, even the imperfections.  We attempt to model our families after that of Jesus’, knowing we are never going to get it 100% right, but also knowing if it follows that model of the Holy Family, it will be full of love at it’s very center. 
I also wanted to take a moment and  thank all those who took time to send me a card, picture card (love them), gifts, gift cards/certificates, and money.  You really have a way with your words to make a priest feel loved and appreciated.  Thank you for helping make this a special first year for me as your pastor!
May each of you have a blessed week, you each remain in my prayers.
 
Fr. Barry