I think that every new year should begin with gratitude for the year gone by, for the many blessings and graces the Lord gave us in the year just finished.
Even if things were difficult, there are many blessings which we often take for granted. So we thank you Lord for all that you gave us in 2024.
And we look forward in hope especially for this year ahead which the Holy Father has designated as the Jubilee Year of Hope.
In the Diocese of Waterford & Lismore we have lots of things planned for 2025 which we entrust to God’s care – so that our faith will be made stronger and more active.
Hope in Christian terms is not mere optimism or feeling good about the future. It is a hope built on the solid foundation of God’s strength, on his mercy, faithfulness and love. Therefore no matter what happens in 2025 God will be there to shower us with more blessings.
May we be open to receive them, not only for ourselves but for all those with whom we live and interact. For this we need to surrender all to the Lord and realise that we need his help and that, in the end, we are always totally dependent on God.
Therefore, the words of Pope Francis in his New Year’s message are so apt I think. With his words I finish and wish all who read this a Happy New Year - full of God’s peace and blessings:
“Forgive us our trespasses, Lord,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
In this cycle of forgiveness, grant us your peace,
the peace that you alone can give
to those who let themselves be disarmed in heart,
to those who choose in hope to forgive the debts of their brothers and sisters,
to those who are unafraid to confess their debt to you,
and to those who do not close their ears to the cry of the poor.”
+Phonsie