Solemnity of the Epiphany of Our Lord

01-05-2014Pastor's LetterFr. Don Kline

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Today we celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany. What exactly is an epiphany? Some would say that it is a sudden, profound realization of something important; a breakthrough; a deep and profound understanding of something once mysterious. The Church uses the term to describe God as being made manifest in Jesus Christ. On Christmas we focused on Jesus' humanity. On Epiphany we turn our attention to Christ's divinity. We pause here today, just like the wise men, to pay this Divine Child homage and adoration as only a true King deserves. Next week we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, a dramatic leap forward in Jesus' life when we celebrate the initiation of Jesus' public ministry.

Jesus walked among us, teaching us by his words and example - as God and as man. God's presence among us should teach us the value of each and every person and that each person is a gift from God. Our Lord's presence among us also reminds us that we are on this journey together. As part of the journey, we are called by Our Lord to imitate Him - to care for those we encounter… a teenager reaching out for help, an elderly person needing company, a poor family needing food, children in Africa needing medicine. Together we can glorify God in ways that are pleasing to Him. May this Year of Grace be for us a reminder of the many and varied ways that Our Lord places people 'on the way' to help us reach our goal - heaven. Caring for others is a vital step along the path He has laid out for us.

As you walk along the path of faith this week, consider how God has manifested Himself to you personally. What is your response to this human and divine outpouring of love? Are you an obligatory Catholic or are you a cheerful steward giving back what He has already given you? We are blessed at St. Joan of Arc to have a variety of ways to learn and serve as stewards of God's many gifts. This new year brings new opportunities to discover them.

God Bless,
Fr. Don Kline

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