As we turn the calendar page and begin 2026,
I wish to express my gratitude to our staff,
councils, Faith Formation teachers, volunteers
and so many people who have helped make
2025 such an extraordinary year.
May God bless you, your family and all you love as
we look up and ahead at the possibilities, opportuni
ties and dreams of the New Year.
We have taken on challenges with renewed hope,
and under the guidance of Pope Leo
and Archbishop Henning,
I am confident the Holy Spirit will lead us.
Mary, Mother of the Church, point us to your Son
and guide us. Happy New Year!
-Fr. John
Three gifts used today
Three special presents were carried by the Magi to Bethlehem, but what do we know about them?
Frankincense, also called olibanum and al-lubān, is an aromatic resin found in the Boswellia tree. The material is valued for its aromatic qualities and has been used in church for thousands of years. Frankincense is also found in medicine, oil, and perfume. While the Frankincense market has existed for millennia, its viability is now threatened by the overharvesting of Boswellia trees, deforestation, and the longhorn beetle.
Myrrh, also called the Balm of Gilead or Balsam of Mecca, is similar to Frankincense but obtained from Commiphora plants. Myrrh is mixed with Frankincense in church. The substance has also been used in salves and liniments, arthritic remedies, perfume, even the embalming of mummies. At one point in ancient economy, myrrh was worth more than gold.
Gold is the most malleable metal in the world. Its resistance to moisture and corrosion has made it the perfect material for currency, jewelry and sacred objects. Gold is found in dental crowns and bridges, high-end CDs, toners, spacecraft, airplane windows, USB cables, semiconductors, and even gourmet desserts.
2025 Grand Annual letter
Due to circumstances beyond our control, the printing and distribution of the Grand Annual letter and information was delayed, but now we hope you’ve finally received this important information- thank you for your patience.
This past year has brought about lots of change, but we are confident that the coming year will be one of new opportunities and possibilities and your kind generosity makes a critical difference. If you haven’t received your information, please give us a call. Please note that your donation is tax deductible. Thank you and God bless you for your generosity to this initiative and all we do as we look up and look ahead!
–Fr. John
CORI Time
To all our volunteers:
January is the month for our parish to complete CORI forms. A copy of the form will be emailed to volunteers. You may have it notarized and send it back or bring it filled out to Church for an approved staff member to verify your signature. Please bring your photo ID. You may also drop by the office. There are also blank CORI forms at the office and at the Church for your convenience. All forms must be submitted by Friday, January 30. All those who have recently filled out a CORI do not need to fill another one out.
Thank you for all that you do and for your help in getting the CORIs submitted in a timely manner.
Love Your Marriage Retreat (1/31)
This one-day retreat for married couples will be held on January 31st at the Pastoral Center, Braintree. It will be led by
Family Life and Our Outpost, a Catholic ministry designed to help couples intentionally develop vibrant marriages
through healthier communication, conflict resolution, and decision making. The cost is $40 per couple and includes meals, materials, Mass, and more. For more information and registration, visit bit.ly/loveyourmarriageretreat