About this time every year, many of us think about making New Year’s resolutions. As I was thinking about what to share, I was drawn, once again, to what Pope Francis suggested would be good New Year’s resolutions in a reflection that he wrote in 2021. The words shared by the Pope still are very meaningful today, so elegant and profound in their simplicity that they could be used every year.

The last one is one that I added.

•     Finish your meals.

•     Don't gossip

•     Make time for others.

•     Choose the more humble purchase.

•     Meet the poor “in the flesh”.

•     Stop judging others.

•     Befriend those who disagree.

•     Make commitments, such as marriage.

•     Make it a habit “to ask the Lord”.

•     Be happy.

•     Be grateful knowing that you are a beloved child of God.

Wishing you God’s peace and happiness in 2025. My best wishes for a Blessed New Year.

Deacon Tom