From the Pastor&#039;s Desk: Epiphany Sunday

From the Pastor's Desk:
"When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy; and going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him." (Matthew 2:10)
As we celebrate the Epiphany and the final day of the Christmas season, the magi (or "wise men") remind us of a simple truth. God wants to draw EVERYONE to Jesus! Some of the first people drawn to the newborn king were these magi from the east. They were foreigners, drawn to Jesus by a star.
Along with forming our Holy Apostles Family of Parishes, we are being asked by Archbishop Lucas to become missional parishes. This means we are called to be places where all people are invited to know, love and serve Jesus. This is not a new invention of our Archbishop but a return to what Jesus has asked us to do. "Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." Even as a young child, Jesus draws all people to himself starting with the shepherds and magi.
Especially as we celebrate the Epiphany, I ask you to pray for renewed faith in our world, parishes, homes, and in each and every heart.
Lord, as you led the magi to Jesus by the guidance of a star, help everyone to hear your invitation to come to Jesus, know Him personally and closely, and share Him with others. Bless our parishes so that we may be communities where the lost sheep are drawn to the Good Shepherd. We ask this through the same Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Many Epiphany blessings! Holy Apostles pray for us!
--Fr. Mark Beran