Walking Together in Hope and Faith

As we prepare our hearts for the joy of Christmas, we do so with full recognition that this season arrives at a unique and, for some, challenging moment in our parish community. With the pending changes to the Mass roster beginning on January 18/19, many of us are experiencing a mix of emotions—grief, anxiety, confusion, or perhaps even frustration and anger. It is important that we acknowledge these    feelings honestly and compassionately. Change, especially when it affects our spiritual home, can be deeply unsettling. The Mass is not merely a weekly obligation; it is where we encounter Jesus in the Eucharist and find fellowship with one another. It is a sacred gathering of the faithful, a source of strength, peace, and connection. When this rhythm of worship feels disrupted or altered, it is understandable that some of us may feel a profound sense of loss.

And yet, it is into moments like these—moments of uncertainty and even sorrow—that the message of Christmas speaks most powerfully. The Gospel reminds us that Jesus came into a world that was far from perfect. He entered a time of division, hardship, and longing, and yet He brought with Him a light that no darkness could overcome. Jesus, who is “the Way, the Truth, and the Life” (Jn 14:6), calls us to          consciously follow Him—especially in difficult times. He asks us to trust that even in the midst of change, God is present and at work among us.

The truth is, faith does not mean avoiding struggle; it means walking through it with hope. We do not do this alone. We walk together as a parish community, strengthened by God’s love and the relationships we share. As we face these changes, we must hold fast to what unites us: our love for Jesus Christ and His Church. The Mass remains the source and summit of our lives as Catholics, no matter where we celebrate it. It is natural to grieve what feels lost—whether it be a familiar time, a beloved location, or a sense of routine. But let us also be open to what Jesus may be doing through this moment. Perhaps He is inviting us to grow in ways we do not yet see. Perhaps He is calling us to deepen our trust in Him, to build new relationships within our wider parish family, or to rediscover what it truly means to gather in His beautiful, wonderful and holy name.

This Christmas season, as we celebrate the birth of our Savior, let us remember that He is our constant in a changing world. The angels will proclaim to each one of us at whatever Christmas Mass we celebrate, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy” (Lk 2:10). This message is for us, too. Even now, that amid our uncertainty, joy is possible—a joy rooted not in our circumstances, but in the unshakable love of God. As we move forward, let us do so together, with hearts open to God’s will and to one another. If you are struggling with the changes, please know you are not alone. Speak to one another, share your concerns, but please do so in charity, and pray for guidance and peace. Let us be a community that supports and uplifts each other, bound together by the love of Christ.

In the coming days, may we reflect on the humble journey of the Holy Family—how they, too, faced uncertainty and change as they sought to follow God’s plan. Like them, may we trust that God is with us, leading us, and preparing something beautiful ahead. Together, let us celebrate the gift of Christmas with renewed faith. Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, is born to guide us. He is Emmanuel, God with us—today, tomorrow, and always.

Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed and joy-filled Christmas,

Yours in Christ, Fr Josh