We observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay homage to the Lord

Today’s Gospel account recounts the journey of the Magi, who follow the star to find the newborn King of the Jews, Jesus. The Magi’s journey reminds us of the importance of seeking Christ with determination and faith. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, they persevered, guided by the light of the star. Their search symbolizes the spiritual journey we are all called to undertake – a journey to encounter Jesus, the Light of the world.

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord. In the Liturgical Calendar of the Roman Catholic Church this feast is celebrated on January 6th and on the following Sunday the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord is observed. Yet, in some countries including Canada, the Epiphany is held on the Sunday between January 1st and January 8th . This Solemnity of the Epiphany had its origins in the
Eastern Christian Tradition and was a celebration of the manifestation of the Incarnation of Jesus Christ. At the beginning, the birth of Christ, the story of the Magi, Christ’s baptism, His divine manifestation, the miracle at the wedding in Cana, and the feeding of the crowds were celebrated in the one festival of the
Epiphany. The Epiphany was celebrated before the Church began celebrating the Nativity of the Lord. Western Christians have traditionally emphasized the “Revelation to the Gentiles”. For us the main idea of the Epiphany is that Jesus came to our world to be our Redeemer and Saviour. We would like Him to be
known by all people, because He is the Light of the world. Let us adore Him!

Pope Francis’ intention for January 2025: For the right to an education ~ “Let us pray for migrants, refugees, and those affected by war, that their right to an education, which is necessary to build a better world, might always be respected.”

This Tuesday, January 7 th we observe the memorial of Saint André Bessette, religious. St. André Bessette, also known as Brother André, was a humble religious brother of the Congregation of Holy Cross in Canada. Born in 1845 Alfred Bessette in Saint-Grégoire d’Iberville, Quebec, he was the eighth of twelve children in a poor but devout family. Orphaned at the age of 12, André faced many hardships, including poor health and limited formal education. In 1870, he joined the Congregation of Holy Cross in Montreal, taking the name Brother André. Assigned as a porter at Notre Dame College, he performed menial tasks with joy and humility. Despite his lowly position, he became widely known for his deep faith, compassion, and gift of healing. Brother André had a profound devotion to St. Joseph and attributed all the miracles worked through him to St. Joseph’s intercession. His healing ministry drew thousands to seek his prayers, and he encouraged them to trust in God and pray fervently. With donations from the faithful, Brother André oversaw the construction of St. Joseph’s Oratory in Montreal, now the largest shrine in the world dedicated to St. Joseph. It stands as a testament to his unwavering faith and devotion. St. André Bessette was canonized by Pope Benedict XVI on October 17th , 2010, becoming first Canadian-born male saint. He is remembered for his humility, kindness, and deep trust in God.

St. André Bessette – pray for us!

God bless,
Fr. Peter