By Shirley Baker, Pastoral Council Chair. 

“Train yourself for devotion, for, while physical training is of limited value, devotion is valuable in every respect, since it holds a promise of life both for the present and for the future,” (1 Timothy 4:7-8)

   As we approach the start of a new calendar year, many of us take time to reflect on habits and choices—letting go of those that don’t serve us and embracing those that will. While the new liturgical year began almost a month ago, the beginning of 2025 offers another opportunity for renewal. As a teacher, I am fortunate to experience many “first days” throughout the year, each one offering a chance for reflection and rejuvenation. I look forward to 2025 as a year of vitality and grace for our parish. By committing to a deeper interior faith, we can continue strengthening the bonds that unite us as a community. 

   One way to connect with the broader Church is by participating in the Jubilee of the World of Communications 2025. Technology offers us incredible tools to engage with our faith, and podcasts are a great example of this. 

   For 2025, I am excited to begin Father Mike Schmitz’s Catechism in a Year and Father Mark-Mary Ames’ Rosary in a Year, which our parish is embracing together. I also enjoy Father Mike’s Sunday Homilies podcast and the Abiding Together podcast with Sister Miriam James Heidland. After attending the National  Eucharistic Congress, I discovered Katy McGrady’s Like a Mother podcast, which highlights Catholic authors and speakers. These shows led me to the Catholic Classics podcast, where I recently completed The Story of a Soul by St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Another favorite is Godsplaining, where Dominican friars discuss a wide range of Catholic topics. 

   In addition to podcasts, I have found Catholic music deeply inspiring. Artists like The Hillbilly Thomists, Matt Maher, and Sarah Kroger—available on the Hallow app, iTunes, and Spotify—help me focus on messages of honor, justice, purity, and love, as Paul encourages in Philippians 4:8. These uplifting alternatives to secular entertainment enrich my spiritual journey. 

   These digital tools have become central to my personal reflection. Journaling and Bible study remind me daily of Paul’s call in 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18: “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks.” This consistent practice has profoundly shaped my life, helping me overcome emotional struggles and recognize God’s grace more fully. 

   Each day, I write in my gratitude journal, starting with the same words: “I am grateful for my home, my family, and my faith.” I then add a specific blessing, such as a meaningful conversation or an act of kindness. Afterward, I spend 20-30 minutes listening to and following along with Bible in a Year. Father Mike’s insights into Scripture have deepened my understanding of God’s word and enhanced my reflection on Father Vincent’s weekly homily. 

   My daily devotions have also drawn me closer to our parish community. Through discipleship and fellowship opportunities, I have built meaningful friendships and connections. Our parish thrives because of the people who make it their spiritual home. We are its lifeblood, and our communion with God strengthens when we share our gifts with others. 

   God made us for relationship. The more time we spend with Him in prayer and Scripture, and with one another in action, the more we spread His love in the world. As Paul reminds us in Romans 12:10, “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” Each of us is vital to the body of Christ—its health, vitality, and longevity depend on all of us. 

   I am deeply grateful for each of you and the blessings you bring to my life. My resolutions for this year remain rooted in faith, family, and community. I pray that all of us in our parish family will experience God’s abundant grace in the year ahead.