Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany this weekend, the words of the prophet Isaiah ring out with a radiant call: “Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you” (Isaiah 60:1). In these verses, we see the promise of nations gathering, drawn to the light of God’s presence, bearing gifts of gold and frankincense in praise.
This prophecy finds its fulfillment in the Gospel of Matthew, where the Magi from the East follow a star to find the newborn King. These wise men – outsiders – represent all of us who are called from afar to encounter Christ. Their journey reminds us that God’s revelation is not limited but universal, inviting every heart to seek Him with open wonder and humility. In a world often shrouded in darkness-be it personal struggles, division, or uncertainty-the Epiphany proclaims that Christ’s light pierces through, guiding us like that holy star to the manger where true hope is born.
Let us, then, take inspiration from the Magi’s faithfulness and offer our own gifts to the Lord. Just as they presented gold for His kingship, frankincense for His divinity, and myrrh for His humanity and sacrifice, we are called to bring our lives-our joys, sorrows, and daily efforts-as an offering. In our parish community here in Quincy, may this feast encourage us to be beacons of that same light, sharing the Good News with our families, neighbors, and those who feel distant from God. As we begin this new year, let’s commit to following Christ’s star more closely, trusting in His guidance amid life’s twists and turns. I am grateful for each of you and the ways you reflect His glory in our midst. May the Epiphany fill your hearts with renewed faith and joy. God bless you all.
This next week I am going on retreat, since I wasn’t able to do one last year at all. We will not have Masses this week, but on Wednesday we will have a communion service at 6:30 and 5:30. I am sorry for this, but with fewer priests these days it’s harder to fill weekdays. I am on a retreat for a few days, and sadly that overlapped with Father Ken heading home for his yearly visit for a month. Keep both of us in your prayers as we travel. I will be home after a few days. Please be patient while I am gone for this much needed renewal and growth in my own spirituality.
Merry Christmas!!!
Father Arisman