Greetings for 2007!

What a better way to start the New Year than to give a blessing to all of you, each and everyone! This is one of my favorites: “The Lord bless thee and keep thee; the Lord make His face to shine upon thee and be gracious unto thee; the Lord lift up His countenance upon thee and give thee peace. So shall they put my name upon the children of Israel, and I will bless them.” (Numbers 6:24-27).

With the Divine Motherhood of Mary and Peace in mind to start this new year, what a great way to begin 2007. Father Bertrand reminded me that Mary is an excellent person for the theme of peace, for it is she who brought into the world the Son of God who is the Prince of Peace.

We know from newspapers, TV, media, and perhaps a neighbor who has a child in Iraq, Afghanistan, or other dangerous parts of the world that peace is needed worldwide. We can do something about that. Your prayer for peace makes a difference. Yes, your thought right now, as you read this, makes a difference. A simple prayer for peace, this moment, makes a difference. Join me now in that prayer.