December 31: Feast of the Holy Family. January 1, 2024: Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God.

Nothing distinguished the ordinary couple who crossed the vast, crowded court of the Temple in Jerusalem. Joseph and Mary had come from Galilee to perform two rituals ordered by Law, including presenting Jesus at the Temple in Jerusalem. The Holy Family returned to Nazareth, where “the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom.” They serve as an example of a family where love is of the upmost importance. Let us take a moment to reflect on our childhood memories and give thanks for a time when we lived in families filled with joy, tenderness and good examples. Young people, aged 14-20: relish the experience of being surrounded by a family that loves you.

Let us pray to the Holy Family for all the families of the world. Many families are experiencing all kinds of suffering and difficulties. May all families have the peace and joy necessary to unite them in love.

January 1 is the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God. Of course, it’s New Year’s Day. I remember staying up, singing and dancing with my family until the wee hours of the morning on this day. But, it is also a day to celebrate Saint Mary, the Mother of God. Let us truly celebrate her and offer her all our love, like she did for her Son, Jesus.

Faith is not a tranquilizer, and Mary’s faith did not prevent her from suffering like all mothers do – possibly even more than most because she loved more. But as she was immersed in God, nothing deeply troubled her. She experienced everything with a backdrop of peace. We can ask her for this peace for our families and the whole world in the new year. I wish you all a wonderful 2024, a 366-day year to be lived according to God’s plan, with Him and for Him.