Feast of the Baptism of the Lord

Written by Father Juan Carlos Paguaga.

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

As we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, we come to the close of the Christmas season. The decorations are slowly being put away, daily routines resume, and life begins to feel “normal” again. Yet the Gospel gently reminds us of a beautiful and lasting truth: Christmas is not just a memory,  Christmas is a mission.

From my heart, I want to express my deep and sincere gratitude to all our ministries and volunteers who so generously offered their time, talent, and love throughout Advent and Christmas. Your dedication, often quiet and unseen, made our liturgies, gatherings, and celebrations truly beautiful, prayerful, and welcoming. Because of you, this season touched many hearts.

This year, we were especially blessed to welcome more parishioners than in past years, along with many visitors from other states who joined us while visiting family or taking time to rest. Your generosity helped make St. Agnes not just a place of worship, but a true home for all who entered our doors.

Christmas teaches us that God chose to be close to us, to walk with us, and to teach us how to love, forgive, and live as free sons and daughters of God, with our eyes fixed on eternal life. The Child born in Bethlehem, the House of Bread, continues to nourish us today as the Bread of Life, especially in the gift of the Holy Eucharist.

As we return to Ordinary Time, let us not put Jesus away with the decorations. Instead, let us ask Him to take what little we have, bless it, and use it, so that we may become bread for others, offering compassion, hope, and love throughout the year.

And let us always remember: Together, we are St. Agnes.

With sincere heart,

Fr. jc