My dear friends,
This Sunday we reflect on the Gospel of Jesus’ first miracle at the wedding in Cana, a sign that reveals His divine identity and mission. Alongside the Epiphany of the Magi and His Baptism in the Jordan, this miracle manifests Jesus as the Light of the World. In the Gospel of John, the events leading to Cana unfold day by day, culminating in the “eighth day”—a day of new beginnings. This foreshadows the Resurrection, the day after the Sabbath, when Christ will rise and make all things new. At Cana, He transforms water into wine; in His Resurrection, He transforms death into life.
As I write to you from Italy, I ask for your prayers as I prepare as coordinator with others for the Pontifical North American College’s Alumni Association reunion during this Jubilee Year of Hope. May all the details fall into place as the Lord wills and may God bless our pilgrimage to the Holy Father Pope Francis, the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul and through the four Holy Doors. Please know that I carry the prayers and intentions of all at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish with me as I visit these holy sites.
This weekend as Americans we pray for our country as a new administration is inaugurated and we ask God’s guidance and blessing upon President Donald J. Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance in their leadership of the United States.
We also continue to pray for the victims of the California wildfires. Donations are being received to assist them (see below), and in February, we will hold a special emergency second collection to support those affected. Details will follow.
On Monday, as our nation celebrates Martin Luther King Jr., we are reminded of his call for racial justice and equality—a truth deeply rooted in our faith. By baptism, we are all one in Christ, and even before baptism, every person is created in God’s image.
Later this week, let us also pray for the legal protection of the unborn and for a future where every human life is valued and protected. May we also atone, with the help of God’s grace, for the precious and unfathomable lives that have already been lost. May no one, however, despair of Jesus’ Mercy and forgiveness, regardless of the past.
This Sunday, we welcome Fr. Ignatius, O.P., who will celebrate the 10:30 a.m. and 12:00 noon Masses, to assist Fr. Thumma. Seminarian Ian Mendoza will lead the Children’s Liturgy of the Word during the 9:00 a.m. Family Mass in the lower church.
I look forward to returning next weekend, January 26th, for Sunday Masses. At the 9:00 a.m. Mass, we will celebrate the start of Catholic Schools Week. Please join us to pray for our school, and invite family and friends to the open house that follows. Let’s spread the word about the wonderful education rooted in faith that our school offers.
Wishing you a blessed Sunday and a grace-filled week!