The Holy Family was obviously a place where there was a deep love of God; it was a place where the scriptures and things of God were discussed and honoured. This is suggested by Jesus being found in the temple asking and answering questions. Mary and Joseph had evidently taught Him well, their example of love and obedience paved the way for Jesus to be open to all His heavenly Father would teach Him. Families today are called to be a mini-church asking God for the grace to love Him and be obedient to Him even if we do not always understand. As we ponder on the words of the Gospel let us pray that we as families and as individuals may be filed with wonder and awe at the marvels of God. At the same time we wish to celebrate the gift of faith, family and friends who will walk the journey of the new year with us. May we bring the presence of Christ to the centre of our gatherings, our meetings, our work. For us “the designated time has come” to begin anew, not with resolutions, but with actions on behalf of others. If each one of us took responsibility for Christ in one suffering person their lives would be transformed and we would be living our status as adopted sons and daughters. As we receive the invitations to significant events in the coming year, may we accept the scriptures today as an important invitation to live the new year and promised response for 2019.
Monsignor Noon, Father Chris Tracey, Father Mulhall and Deacon Quinto Tami and all the Parish Staff wish to extend our prayers and best wishes for a Happy New Year to all the members of the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate Parish. We also thank everyone for their prayers, cards, gifts and many acts of kindness at Christmas and throughout the year. As your pastor I welcome the opportunity to thank all of you for the many ways in which you serve our parish family through your time, talent and treasure. To our Stewardship Committee; Catholic Women’s League; Knights of Columbus; Ministers of the Word & Eucharist; Ministers of Hospitality; Children’s Liturgy Program Leaders; Musicians; Parish Organist; Music Ministers and Choir Members; Altar Servers; Sacristan; Decorators and our School Communities.
NEW YEAR’S DAY IS A HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION CELEBRATING THE MOTHERHOOD OF MARY AND IS THE WORLD DAY FOR PEACE
MASS will be celebrated:
Monday, December 31st………5:15p.m.
Tuesday, January 1st………….9:00a.m. and 11:00a.m.