I rejoice with you as we celebrate the great feast of the Birth of Jesus, the birth of our Salvation, our Sanctification, our Redemption! Let us sing with the angels, “Glory to God in the highest, and peace to men of good will!” I hope we can all experience that peace—the peace that we find when we silence ourselves, leaving behind the busyness of our days for a few moments of reflection for our Good Lord to speak to us. Close your eyes as you reflect and let Him take over your mind and heart, and soul. Blessed Mother Teresa, of whom you know I am fond, gave us a good lesson on how to do this:

“To make possible true inner silence, practice:

Silence of the eyes, by seeking always the beauty and goodness of God everywhere, and closing them to the faults of others and to all that is sinful and disturbing to the soul.

Silence of the ears, by listening always to the voice of God and to the cry of the poor and the needy, and closing them to all other voices that come from fallen human nature, such as gossip, tale bearing, and uncharitable words.

Silence of the tongue, by praising God and speaking the life-giving Word of God that is the truth, that enlightens and inspires, brings peace, hope, and joy; and by refraining from self-defense and every word that causes darkness, turmoil, pain, and death.

Silence of the mind, by opening it to the truth and knowledge of God in prayer and contemplation, like Mary who pondered the marvels of the Lord in her heart, and by closing it to all untruths, distractions, destructive thoughts, rash judgments, false suspicions of others, vengeful thoughts, and desires.

Silence of the heart, by loving God with our heart, soul, mind, and strength; loving one another as God loves; and avoiding all selfishness, hatred, envy, jealousy, and greed.”*

Thank you all for your many prayers and sacrifices this year. Thank you for the encouragement you offer me, the pain you share with me, and your support of our parish and parish family. May the New Year bring you many blessings and may you find that peace within that our Blessed Savior so longs for us all to enjoy. Have a Good and Joyful Christmas and a very prosperous New Year!

With love and prayers,

Fr. Charley

*Mother Teresa, In the Heart of the Word: thoughts, stories, and prayers, New World Library, 14.