A New Year… New Beginnings…

A new year always feels like a moment of new beginnings. One season closes, another begins, and we find ourselves quietly asking: Where am I being led now? What will my 2026 look like? Where do I need to make a fresh start?

As the Church reaches the end of the Jubilee Year of Hope, we are reminded that faith is living, growing, and always unfolding. Our faith is placed not in an idea, but in a person: Jesus Christ, and in Him we place our hope. From here, we are sent forth as pilgrims of hope into 2026 and beyond.

The Epiphany gives us the image for this journey. The Magi set out because they noticed a star. They did not have the full map, but commenced the journey anyway. Often we feel the need to have everything figured out before we begin, but faith often begins simply by taking the first step. As we commence 2026, what is the star God is placing on your heart to follow now? It might be an invitation to deepen prayer, to return to the sacraments, to reconcile a relationship, to serve the church more generously, or to trust God in an uncertain season. Stars attract us gently, sparking hope within and illuminating the path ahead.

Often, when we hear the Epiphany story, we imagine ourselves as one of the characters: a Magi, a shepherd, a pilgrim. But what if this year, you saw yourself as the star?!

A Christ-centred life, marked by authenticity, courage, generosity, relationship, and joy, quietly leads others to Christ. These are our parish values which mark how we live out the mission. By growing in these values, the world is changed for the better, one small act at a time.

And Scripture tells us that after encountering Jesus, the Magi returned home by another way. That is mission. Mission is not about doing more of the same; it is about allowing an encounter with Christ to change how we live, love, and move through the world. How can I fulfil our mission in 2026 to be a vibrant community which actively accompanies others to encounter Jesus?

As we begin this new chapter, perhaps the most meaningful present we can offer God this year is our presence… be present in prayer, be present in service, be present in generosity and tithing, be present to one another as a parish community. It’s not about what I do, but my joyful response to what God has already done in my life.

May this new year be a true beginning: a renewed pilgrimage, a clearer star, and a deeper willingness to let Christ lead us, and through our shining response to Christ leading us may we too lead others home.

✨ Blessings for your new beginning in 2026, Fr Gerard