Five Ways – Dec 24

December 30, 2024

First, as plans are made for the funeral of President Jimmy Carter, may we remember him as a devout Southern Baptist who taught Sunday School for many years.  When the Southern Baptists turned fundamentalist, he fought with all his energy to return them to being evangelical and ecumenical.

Second, some joy for the New Year, from the late Catholic humorist Erma Bombeck (1927-96):  New Year’s Resolutions.  1.  I’m going to clean up this dump as soon as the kids grow up.  2.  I will go to no doctor whose office plants have died. 3.  I will never lend my car to anyone I have given birth to. 4. And just like last year: I am going to remember that my children need love the most when they deserve it the least.

Third, from Pope Francis’ Urbe and Orbe (to the City and World) Christmas message: “The mystery that never ceases to amaze and move us was renewed this night:  the Virgin Mary gave birth to Jesus, the Son of God, wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger. . . .This event, which took place over two thousand years ago, is indeed made new thanks to the Holy Spirit. . . . This is the meaning of the Holy Door of the Jubilee, which I opened last night here in St. Peter’s Basilica:  it represents Jesus, the Door of salvation open for all. . . . As pilgrims of hope, let us go out to meet him!” (the entire, short, 2 full-page inspiring message may be found on the website “The Holy See, Vatican,” papal messages, Dec. 25 and is well worth reading).

Each diocese and every parish will be having special events during the Holy Year of 2025; please consult them to grow in our faith. 

Especially during the Christmas season, which lasts until the Epiphany of Jan. 5, 2025, let us invite those who do not attend to join us at Sunday Mass. The Holy Spirit, through the beauty of the season, is attracting them and needs our help.

Many thanks to those who commented on the Nov. 12 Five Ways.  May we all have a blessed, happy and holy New Year!

Fr. Harry Winter, O.M.I.