Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God Wednesday, December 31, 5:00pm – St. Joseph Church Thursday, January 1, 9:00am – St. Mary Church
Golden Agers, January 2 – 11:00am, Sacrd Heart Community Center
From the Desk of Father John
Dear Parishioners and Friends of Holy Family Catholic Community!
The Holy Family, consisting of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and Saint Joseph, is a central figure in Christian devotion, representing the ideal model of family life. The central figure is the Word-made-Flesh, the Son of God made man for the salvation of the world. He was conceived in the Blessed Virgin Mary by the power of the Holy Spirit, so that Mary is His Mother according to His human nature. She is titled Mother of God because Her Son is a Divine Person. St. Joseph, husband of Mary, while not the biological father of Jesus, was guided by an angel to assume the responsibilities of fatherhood and as the “Custodian of the Redeemer” (Pope St. John Paul II). Though he speaks no words in the Gospel, his actions to protect and guide the Holy Family at the birth of our Lord, in the family’s flight to Egypt, and as our Lord was found in the Temple at the age of 12 are an example to us of fatherly love and compassion. Their story is deeply woven into the fabric of Christian faith, serving as a beacon of love, faithfulness, and obedience to God’s will. This devotion to the Holy Family has been a source of inspiration for countless families and individuals throughout Christian history.
Welcome to this year’s celebration of the Patronal Feast of Holy Family Catholic Community on this weekend of December 27/28. As 2025 gives way to a new year, I thank you for your generous support spiritually, morally, corporal works of mercy and financially. The foundation of this parish is deep and strong. May God bless all of you! Happy Feast of the Holy Family! Many of you here in this community have played an important role, not only in your loving commitment to Holy Family, but assisting in all ongoing development—spiritual, pastoral, administrative and renovative projects. God Bless You. May l bring to your attention that we shall dedicate ALL celebration of the Eucharist this weekend, December 27/28, to the intentions of our parish especially giving thanks to God for keeping us safe, healthy, united and a community of faith. This year’s Feast of the Holy Family was made even more special by the presence of our Bishop, Right Reverend Salvatore Matano on Saturday, Dec 27th at St Mary’s
Church, Dansville. On behalf of Holy Family Parish community, I want to express our deepest gratitude to our Bishop for joining us as the principal celebrant for our patronal feast. Having our shepherd with us as we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family is a profound blessing. It was a joy to welcome him to our parish on this special day of our patronage. We are grateful for his prayers, his wisdom, and the grace he brought to our altar. May God continue to bless his ministry as he leads our diocese with humility and compassion.”
It is also right and fitting that the first day of every New Year is dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God. Our New Year Vigil Mass will be held on Wednesday, 12/31/2025, 5.00 PM at St Joseph’s Church, Wayland and the New Year Mass on Thursday, 01/01/2026, 9.00 AM at Mary’s Church, Dansville. The Church offers Mary as a model of love in its fullness. Our Church scholars remind us that the love she had for Jesus and Joseph is not reserved for them alone. It is the same precious love that she has for us, the same precious love she shares with us, an unselfish love that we should not take for granted. As we celebrate this great feast, and as we look to Mary as our model, we are challenged to resolve to follow her example and strive to be more unselfish in our love of God, our love of prayer, and our love of our families. In essence, we are invited to respond in generous love and embrace a true sense of family unity. As we journey into the New Year 2026, here at Holy Family Catholic Community, we have a “big job” ahead of us to be good Stewards in building our Church to better serve our families. And do not be afraid, just remain open and be willing to admit our need for God’s grace and what God desires to accomplish in us during the months ahead. I pray that, through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, God will fill every day of your New Year 2026 with graces and blessings galore. The staff, parish council, Finance Council, Deacon Clement, and l wish you and your family a blessed and prosperous new year 2026. God bless and l love you all. Fr. John